Norman Runnheim, 85
April 17, 1939 – February 3, 2025
Norman Runnheim, 85, died peacefully at the Aspirus Care & Rehab facility in Medford,
Wisconsin, on Monday, February 3, 2025, surrounded by family.
Norman was born in Hawkins, Wisconsin, on April 17, 1939, the son of Nikolai and Katherine
(Plaza) Runnheim. He married Catherine Runnheim in Kennan, Wisconsin, on September 8,
- He attended “Code school” to become a railroad telegraph operator, a trade soon replaced
by the telephone. He later worked for Federal Cartridge in Fridley, MN, and then Honeywell. In
the early ’70s, Norman returned to Kennan to be closer to family and was employed by Omark
Industries (later Blount) until his retirement in 2001.
Norman enjoyed woodworking, taxidermy, riding motorcycles, flying ultralight aircraft, reading,
hunting, fishing, and spending time with family. He also cherished the many dogs he had over
the years, with his latest being Harley. He was a kind man who always helped out where he
could. He will truly be missed by many.
Norman is survived by his wife Catherine, his son Michael (Kari) Runnheim, his grandchildren
Alexis (Alex) Nichols and Cole Wahlstrom, and his great-grandson Crew Nichols. He is also
survived by his brothers Ron (the late Florence) Runnheim and Wayne (Harriet) Runnheim, and
his sisters Janet (the late Frank/Frosty and the late Mel) Adomaitis-Arndt, Carol (Mark) Koski,
Shirley (Joe) Rades, and Rebecca (Dennis) Kempen; and by numerous nieces and nephews.
Norman was preceded in death by his daughter Mary Ann Runnheim; his brothers David (the
late Nancy) Runnheim, Nick (Pat) Runnheim, and Brian Runnheim; and his sisters Agnes
(Lyndon) Schancer and Beverly (Michael) Lazar.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, February 14th at 11 am, at St. Paul the Apostle
Catholic Church, W9485 State Highway 8, Catawba, WI 54515, with visitation from 10 am until
the time of service.
The family requests that, in lieu of sending flowers or money, donations be made to one’s
favorite charity.
Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com
Heindl-Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.
