Norma Elaine Dant

Norma Dant, 83, of Atlantic, Iowa, passed away Saturday, September 23, 2023, at Caring Acres in Anita. Norma Elaine was born on August 9, 1940, in Atlantic, Iowa, the daughter of Edward Herman and Etta Clara (Von Seggern) Hoeck. She graduated from Walnut High School in 1957. On August 17, 1968, she married Ronald J. Dant at Zion Lutheran Church in Atlantic. When she married Ron, she also stepped into the role of mother for his two daughters, Cindy and Leanne after their mother died. Raising 12- and 14-year-old daughters could have been trying but Norma was a natural, and the girls were always thankful for everything she taught them including a strong work ethic. She was employed for 10 years at Beaudine Manufacturing in Atlantic before starting a 35-year career in Admissions at Cass County Memorial Hospital. She retired once but before long returned to her desk part-time, which led into more full-time. Finally at the age of 72, in 2012, she stopped working altogether and soaked in the time spent at home; it was her happy place. Norma was an avid puzzler, putting together countless 1000+ piece designs, huggable and snuggly looking cats and dogs being a favorite scene. Norma was an animal lover and had little dogs through the years; the family joked she always picked the "nippers, the barkers, and the not so friendly to others" one in the litter. In later years, she was able to get a cat and enjoyed its company. She collected various AVON items and anything that was cutesy like her multitude of Taco Bell Chihuahuas. Norma made Christmas gatherings special for the family. Even though the menu of chili, oyster stew, vegetable pizza and fruit pizza never changed she always had a new fun game for the kids each year. She was very kind and thoughtful in all she did and though not one to say a lot, Norma was a good listener often smiling, laughing and responding, "for Heaven's sake" at what she heard. Norma is survived by her husband, Ronald of Anita; step-daughter, Cindy (Curt Rush) Blair of Wiota; grandchildren, Lynette Ladd of Texas, Nathan Marr of Atlantic, Macey (Mike Shreve) Blair of Exira, and DJ Blair of Atlantic; great-grandchildren, Cadence Marr, Aubrey Flood, Mercaideze Marr, Irelyn Marr, Moxley Marr, Brantlee Blair, Brayson Blair, Kale Richter and Callie Richter; niece and nephews in Atlantic, Mary Lou (Bill) Hoeck, Bert Allen (April) Hoeck and Norman (Sue) Hoeck; niece and nephews in Arkansas, Crystal Gilbert, Ben E. Mackrell and Brett Mackrell; and many extended family. She is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Etta Hoeck; step-daughter, Leanne (Clay) Belcher; brothers, Eddie Hoeck and Wilbert (Ellen) Hoeck; and sister, Dorothy (Ben) Mackrell. Per Norma's request cremation has taken place and a private family graveside service will be held in the Atlantic Cemetery. Roland Funeral Service is caring for Norma's family and her arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.