Norman Folsom Obituary

Norman Dean Folsom was born on October 9th, 1934, to Robert Folsom and Velda McFadden in Des Moines, IA. Norm lived in California for a short time, but lived most of his days on the Eastside of Des Moines. When Norman was only seventeen, he joined the Navy in 1952 and served till 1955 serving in the Korean war. Norm traveled all over the world as a gunner and gunners’ mate, he loved to share fond memories from his time in Alaska and Korea, some stories spicier than others.

Norman married Donna Porter, the love of his life, on May 26th, 1956. They were blessed with over 67 years of marriage. During that time, they created an amazing family and had four children, Danny, Barb, Laura and their surprise bundle years later, Jimmy.

Norm loved fishing and boating. The family spent many years down at the river boating with Bob, Clarence, Butch and families. He also loved bowling and shared this love not only with his kids but grandchildren. When it came to the kids or the grandkids if there was trouble to get into, Norm was leading the way. It was the special bond he had with all of them, which is one of the reasons he is such a special person. Norm also never met a casino he didn’t like and enjoyed passing time at the slots and hanging with Donna. Luckily, she always won the big bucks, she was his lucky charm.

Norman was a huge Hawkeye fan. He loved watching games and sharing his passion for Hawkeyes with his family, which he passed on to four more generations. Norm loved his family very much and loved being with them. Family events were always a time he enjoyed, sometimes playing cribbage or just enjoying sharing stories. Norm had the best ones.

Norm lived many interesting adventures in his 90 years, not only was he in the Navy, he was a jailer at Polk County Jail, though he eventually retired from Armstrong Tire. Later in life he worked for the Des Moines Schools, driving a bus and being a helper for fun, which he really enjoyed.

In retired life Norm could be found with Donna cruising around the city getting ice cream or eating at one of his and Donna’s favorite spots, always laughing and enjoying each other’s company, and those that were lucky to join them. They also spent many days soaking up the sun on their porch, watching the leaves fall each year from the tree that stood in the front yard, and being blessed to experience each generation of grandchildren swing from its branches.

In October Norman celebrated multiple milestones, he turned the big 9-0 and celebrated with a huge party with all his family and friends, but he was also extremely proud of being baptized on the 27th .

On November 5th , 2024, Norman left this earth and gained his wings for heaven. He will be greatly missed by all those that loved him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Donna Folsom. Daughters; Barb (Shawn) Reynolds, Laura Folsom, and Son; Jim (Jennifer) Folsom. 17 Grandchildren, 40 Great-Grandchildren, and 4 Great-Great-Grandchildren. Many nieces, nephews and other loved ones.

He is Proceeded in Death by his Parents, Robert and Velda. Son, Danny Folsom. Brother, Robert Folsom, Sisters; Wilma VanGundy, and Marquieta (Skeeter) Eddis.

In Celebration of Norman’s life, a visitation will be held starting at 1pm on Sunday November 10, 2024 at Iles Grandview Park 3211 Hubble Ave, Des Moines with Funeral Services to follow at 2pm. Friends and Family are invited to graveside service immediately following at Berwick Cemetery NE 62nd Ave Ankeny, IA.

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