Norman Tigner

Norman Tigner lived an incredible life of love, learning and faith. He was born in Faulkton, SD on April 8th, 1929 to Nellie Wakefield Tigner and William Ira Tigner. Nellie, Ira, and sister Helen preceded him in passing. Norm leaves the love of his life Eula, a wonderful marriage of 66 years, daughter Susan (Kurt), sons David (Patty), Douglas (Diane), and Stephen (Jill) and eight wonderful grandchildren: Spencer, Samantha, Allison, Elizabeth, Caitlyn, Isaac, Ryan, and Austin.
Norm was born into the Great Depression in a humble boxcar. Norm and his family lived all over South Dakota because his father was a railroad man with CNW Railroad. He graduated Faulkton High School after which he attended Northern State University of Aberdeen, SD, where he met the love of his life, Eula. He then enlisted in Army Officer Candidate School. He was an associate professor at Huron College, but he found his vocation in teaching High School math and science in Lemon, SD, Watertown, SD, and Paynesville, MN. He was a National Director from Minnesota to the National Education Association. Along with this he was able to coach so many in his favorite sport of Basketball, as well as winning the South Dakota State Tournament in 1959. He came out of retirement to coach women's basketball because he couldn't stay away from the hardwood. Norm was a remarkable man that lived a remarkable life. He is so immensely proud of his family and how they continue to grow.
Norm was a leader. He joined the Army Officer Candidate School and obtained the rank of Second Lieutenant. While stationed at Fort McClellan in Alabama he stood with his men through the segregation of the south. Refusing to enter any establishment that would not serve all soldiers that are willing, like Norm, to give their lives in service to God and Country.
Norm was a teacher. He valued learning and seizing the day. He taught his family and everyone he touched how to take risks and learn from them. He never stopped asking questions. He taught all to think critically and trust your instincts. But most of all he lived a life of faith and service to all. Norm makes every person feel like they are valued and important to the world.
Norm was a coach. He knew how to bring out the best in people. His fighting spirit and positive attitude made a lasting impression on others whether it was at a basketball gym with one of his bright-eyed students, at the kitchen table with joyous family and friends, in his care with comforting nurses, doctors, and support staff, or where he will always be, in our hearts. Norm always believes in us and pushes us to be the best we can be.
Norm was a servant of God. A president of countless church councils, teacher of Sunday school classes and confirmation classes, he was always willing to help share God's love. He also believed in the church and its mission, serving on capital campaigns, call committees, and service projects. He found such joy and comfort in his faith and he worked hard to instill that faith in others. God's love still shines brightly through Norm, and he wants that light to shine through all of us.
Norm passed to eternity with God on Friday, December 7th, and will be missed by all. His traits and love will live through his family and all he touched forever.
Memorial service will be 11AM Wednesday, December 19 at ST. ANDREW'S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 900 Stillwater Rd, Mahtomedi, with visitation an hour prior. Memorials preferred to the St. Andrew's Foundation.