Norman Lee Glandon

Norman Lee Glandon, loving husband, devoted father, and cherished member of the Sigourney community, passed away on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at his home surrounded by his beloved family. He was born on February 25, 1927, in South English, Iowa, to Donald and Jennie (Plank) Glandon. His journey in life was intertwined with his true love, Bibiana Hamilton, whom he met in 1948. They exchanged vows on June 6, 1950, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sigourney and were blessed with ten children and 73 years of marriage. His love for his family was immeasurable.

At the age of five, Norm moved to Sigourney, where he formed deep roots and made lasting connections. He graduated from Sigourney High School and worked for a short time before answering the call of duty. In 1948, he entered the US Army and served in various capacities, including Engineering, Communications, and as a Platoon Sergeant in a Tank Division. He dedicated himself to the Army Reserves until his retirement as a Master Sergeant (E-8) in 1977.

Norm worked as a Switchman for Central Iowa Telephone Company, later known as General Telephone & Electronics (GTE) Corporation, until his retirement in 1989. After retiring, he spent a few years working for Myles Miller Refrigeration. He was a committed member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sigourney, finding solace and strength in his faith.

Norm was a man of genuine character and warmth. He possessed a remarkable ability to connect with people and never met a stranger. His playful nature and quick wit endeared him to everyone he encountered, and his bear hugs were legendary. Even as his hearing faded, he remained steadfast in seeking ways to make meaningful connections with others.

Norm had a passion for the great outdoors and pursued his love for hunting, fishing, and spending time at the shooting range. “Stormin’ Norman” led Myles Miller’s slo-pitch team to many victories as a pitcher over the years. His famous pork loin, affectionately known as “Glandon Meat”, was a favorite of the family. He found solace in the tranquility of nature, spending countless hours painting his house, tending to his yard and garden, and sitting by the fire on the patio, sharing stories and enjoying the company of loved ones.

Norm’s dedication to craftsmanship was evident in his woodworking skills. His workshop served as his sanctuary, where he created beautiful pieces with precision and creativity. He also poured his talents into extensive remodels of his cherished home, leaving a lasting legacy of his handiwork. He possessed an unwavering work ethic and loved to keep busy, always finding joy in working with his hands.

Norm is survived by his wife Bibi, Sigourney and his children: Gail (Dan) Pilkington, Sigourney; Tim, Nevada; Denise, Spring Grove, IL; Randy (Diane), Sigourney; Cheryl (Dennis) Monroe, Sigourney; Mark (Jill Fugate), Sigourney; Pat, Sigourney; Marty, Sigourney; DeAnne (Steve) Besetzny, Spring Grove, IL; and Jill (Pete) Stokes, Oklahoma City, OK. He is also survived by his siblings Ardith (Sally), Sigourney; Larry (Carolyn), State Center; and Carol Shifflett, Webster; along with 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Daryl, Keith, Roger, and Beverly; and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, June 24. Visitation will take place at St. Mary’s Catholic Church from 9:00 a.m. to 10:20 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Private burial will be held after the Mass, with a reception to follow at St. Mary’s Parish Center at 12:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Keokuk County Hospice Foundation or St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Norm’s memory.