With great sadness, we announce the passing of Norman Dean Thorson, who passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at his home in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Norman was a God-fearing, loving husband, father, and friend, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Norman was born January 18 1932, in Ellinwood, Kansas, to Lydia and Eddie Thorson. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Clarence Thorson and Edward Thorson. Norman grew up in Ellinwood, where his outgoing personality and "good looks" made him a popular figure. He was captain of both his high school football and basketball teams. Norman went on to attend Wichita University, graduating with a degree in marketing. During his college years he also attended mortician school - a decision that provided him with an endless supply of stories to entertain his children in their early years.

Norman met Marcella Ann Kisner of Plains, Kansas, while at a football game, when she was marching and twirling her baton in front of her high school band. They courted through high school and some college until they were married in Plains, Kansas, on November 21, 1953. (Photos of the occasion are nonexistent, as Marcella's cousin forgot to put film in the camera.) The couple lived in Brownfield, Texas; Dallas, Texas; and Wichita, Kansas, before Norman was hired by the Xerox Corporation and the family relocated to Tulsa, Oklahoma - where Norman remained for the rest of his life. This year, Norman and Marcella celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary. Prior to his passing the couple was famous for having been married the longest.

Norman is survived by his wife and four children: Lisa Wahlestedt, Michael Thorson, Janey Thorson, and Daniel Thorson - all of whom challenged his patience until his passing. He was rewarded with six grandchildren: Lauren Riley and Claire Leonard; Ella and Thor Wahlestedt; and Asher and Reagan Thorson. His four great-grandchildren - Grace, Blake, and Audrey Riley, and Rhodes Leonard - brought him tremendous joy. Norman earned the affectionate nickname "the Jell-O Man" for his beloved Jell-O desserts.

A man of deep and steady faith, Norman could be counted on to read his daily devotional every morning and attend Lutheran Good Shepherd Church every Sunday. He was outgoing and warmly regarded by all who came into his life. Norman had a soft spot for dogs and owned many over the years. He is survived by his beloved dog, "Sassy."

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. till 8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Moore's Southlawn Chapel in Tulsa. A memorial service will follow on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at The Resurrection Church in Tulsa.