Obituary: Bonnie Lee Norlander

Bonnie Lee Norlander, 76, of Cloquet passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Sept. 6, 2024, at Diamond Willow in Cloquet. She was born July 17, 1948, to Harold and Clarice (Houvde) Hughes in Duluth. She attended school in Duluth and spent her childhood growing up as one of seven children.

During her adulthood, she worked incredibly hard to raise her family and make sure they had what they needed. She worked for many years at Lake Haven Manor before retiring.

Bonnie married Kenneth Norlander on Dec. 12, 1996, and the couple enjoyed many adventures together until his death on May 1, 2022. For the past 25 years, Bonnie resided in the Esko and Cloquet area.

In her spare time, Bonnie loved traveling, fishing, cooking, baking, and playing keno. She was an avid fan of Hallmark movies. Above all, Bonnie's priorities were her family, friends and pets; she loved them with all her heart, and as long as they were happy, she was too. Bonnie lived the definition of a selfless life and put others before herself at every chance. Her generous and loving nature will never be forgotten. Bonnie also had an unmatched strength. For two-and-a-half years, Bonnie fought cancer in accordance with her motto, "one day at a time." Her family never heard a complaint.

Bonnie is remembered by her sons, Kevin (Jeanne) Rice of Esko, Jim Norlander of Tower and Jerry (Kim) Norlander of Sun City West, Arizona; daughter, Leann (John) Bergman of Cloquet; grandchildren, Geoff and Ethan Bergman, Piper Rice, Nick (Bonnie) and Dan Norlander, Kelsey (Miles) Everson, and Thomas Norlander; and great-grandchildren, Mabel, Nolan, and Beau. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Sonny, Dale and Jimmy Hughes; and sisters, Carol Schmitz, Shirley Sisto and Joyce Helland.

As they know Bonnie so appreciated the wonderful care she received, the family thanks St. Luke's staff, including Dr. Schaefer and Dr. Kolandaivel, and the radiation, chemotherapy and hospice staff; AEOA Meals on Wheels; and Diamond Willow.

A private inurnment will be held at Oneota Cemetery in Duluth. Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Care in Cloquet.

Pine Knot News, Sept. 13, 2024