Norman E. Warthan

Norman Eugene Warthan of Sparta, WI died Tuesday November 30, 2021 at his home with many family members at his bedside. He was born January 24, 1935 to Enoch (Tim) and Isabelle Warthan. He was the eldest of seven children.

Norman started his working career at the Sparta Co-Op in high school. Soon after high school he met his dear wife Fran Boardman of La Crosse. They married on September 11, 1954 and had four children: Robert, Gloria, Danny and Steven.

Norman joined the Wisconsin National Guard where he and Fran relocated to Olympia, WA for a year. They returned to Sparta after that year where Norman became an active member of the community.

Norman worked for Spike Jones in the grocery business for many years. He then went on to work for the city of Sparta Police and Fire Departments as a dispatcher, engineer, and patrol officer. Norm also owned and operated Norm’s Cafe in downtown Sparta, Norm’s Hy-Way Cafe in Tomah and finally the restaurant at the South Side Bar.

Over the years Norman also worked for JP Herring Distributors and was a machinist at the Sparta Foundry. His last job was at the Sparta Pharmacy where he retired at the young age of 83. Norm took great pride in his work, both as an employee and an employer. He always had time to visit with all he came in contact with. He will be missed by so many and he was loved by all who knew him.

Norm is survived by his wife Fran; daughter Gloria; son Steven (Rick) of North Carolina; his grandchildren Ben (Brianna) Warthan of Washington, Bradley Warthan of Sparta and 9 great-grandchildren. Norm is also survived by his brothers Dennis (Rose) Warthan, Jeff (Pat) Warthan; brother-in-law Clinton Garves; his sisters Bev (Jim) Clark, Priscilla (Jeff) Hemmersbach; sister-in-law Sharon and adopted sister Holly (Dave) Arnold. Norm is further survived by many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sons Robert and Danny; brother Del; sister Brenda; brother-in-law Jim; a niece Diane; a nephew Mike; and his parents.

Memorial visitation to be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta.

Memorial service to be held the following day at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at the funeral home with an additional visitation prior, from 10:00 AM until the start of service. Jeff Burrows to officiate.

A luncheon will be held following the service at United Church of Christ across the street. Burial to be held at a later date

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

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