Michael Joseph "Mike" Normandin, 60, of Crookston, Minnesota, died Monday morning, January 18, 2010, at the RiverView Hospital in Crookston, with his family at his side. Though Mike had been battling cancer for the last two months he still retained his great sense of humor and positive attitude. Just a few days ago he said, "Cancer may end my life on this earth, but it will not defeat me!"
Mike was born in Crookston on July 30, 1949, the son of Maurice and Alice (Trudeau) Normandin. He was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic faith, and his early school years were spent at St. Joseph's Academy and Cathedral School. He graduated from Crookston Central High School as a member of the Class of 1967. Mike enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps on June 28, 1967 and served with the 3rd Marine Division in Viet Nam during the Viet Nam War. In recognition of his service to his country he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Viet Nam Service Medal, the Viet Nam Campaign Medal, and the Rifle Sharpshooters Badge. Following Mike's honorable discharge from the Marine Corps with the rank of Corporal he returned to Crookston. He was united in marriage to Kathy Wagner on November 22, 1969 at St. Anne's Catholic Church. Together, they raised two daughters, Tracy and Carla. Mike had a very strong work ethic, instilled in him since his childhood days as a paperboy for the Crookston Times. He was first employed at the Crookston Bakery and in 1969 began working as a clerk, and later manager, of the Tiny Tiger Discount Store. In 1971 Mike joined the Crookston Times staff selling advertising for the newspaper. During these years he was also employed part-time at the Central Pro gas station, Diamond's Off-Sale, and doing cleaning at KROX. Mike then spent a few years working for the Crookston Coca-Cola Bottling Co. as a truck driver, salesman, and manager. From 1990 until 1993 he and Kathy owned and operated the Sears Catalog Store in Crookston. In 1993 Mike started working at the Northland Inn, first at the front desk, and later as manager. From 1998 to the present time he had been employed at Hugo's Grocery Store.
Mike was a longtime member of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception parish, and Crookston Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1902. He liked doing carpentry and took great pride in having built his own home, with the help of others. Mike enjoyed yard work, planting trees, and relaxing on the deck, or in the gazebo, that he and other family members had built. He was a bit of a history buff, and an avid reader. He loved people, whether visiting with old friends or meeting new ones. But the passion in Mike’s life was always for his family, and those treasured moments spent with Kathy, his daughters and sons-in-law, and grandchildren. He also remained a very loving son, brother, uncle, and friend to many. Mike will be remembered with great affection and love by all who were part of his life.
