Norman Garold Nesthus and Joanne Marlene (Deloy) Nesthus passed away surrounded by family in Mission Viejo, California. Norman, after living a healthy life, succumbed to the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease in 2016. Joanne, who lovingly cared for Norman during his illness, faced her own health challenges in later years, finding comfort in her constant companion, poodle “Cooper,” who brought joy to many residents at Joanne’s assisted living community. Joanne passed away due to complications of end stage dementia with family and her beloved Cooper at her bedside.
Norman was born in Spearfish, South Dakota to Norman P. and Eileen Nesthus, and was the beloved older brother to Robert Myron Nesthus and Karla Kay (Story) Nesthus. Joanne was born in Mellette, South Dakota to Ruth and Lester Deloy, and was the cherished “Middle” child among siblings Ronnie Deloy, Dianne (Goldin) Deloy, Allen Deloy, and Jim Deloy.
Norman and Joanne leave behind their son, David Nesthus, daughter-in-law Jackie Nesthus, daughter Barbara Rudolph, and son-in-law Mark Rudolph. They were adored grandparents to Michelle Olivieri (Cory Olivieri), Bryan Nesthus (Samantha Nesthus), and great-grandparents to Madelyn Kerrigan, Mia Olivieri, Mason Olivieri, Casey Nesthus, and Tyler Nesthus.
Norman and Joanne grew up together in Mellette and attended Mellette High School, where Norman’s notorious tardiness became a local legend. After graduation, Norman ventured to California for work at McDonnell Douglas, living with his Aunt and Uncle. When Joanne graduated the following year, Norman returned to South Dakota to elope with Joanne before settling in Long Beach, California.
Norman worked tirelessly to provide for his family, initially at Douglas and later at Pacific Valves until his retirement. Known affectionately as “Stormin’ Norman,” he was valued for his versatility and dedication. Joanne, a talented artist, received accolades for her oil paintings and dedicated years to neighborhood daycare, served as a gifted Cub Scout Den Mother, and later enjoyed working at a local company building circuit boards for aerospace components.
Norman’s love for capturing memories was evident through his constant presence with cameras at family gatherings, while Joanne enjoyed family cookouts and camping trips. They shared a passion for family, evident in their involvement with RV travel clubs and their cherished role as grandparents and great-grandparents.
Though they lived most of their lives in Long Beach, California, they always held Mellette close to their hearts. Their wish to return home has been fulfilled.
Funeral services will be handled by Hyke Funeral Home in Redfield, South Dakota (www.hykefuneralhome.com). A graveside service, with Pastor Kody Bullock, will take place at 10:30 a.m. at the Mellette Cemetery on Saturday, September 14th, 2024, followed by a light lunch and refreshments at the Mellette Community Center.