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January 20, 1939 – Edmonton, Alberta 
April 14, 2026 – Calgary, Alberta

Norma Kunzel, beloved mother, passed away in Calgary, AB, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the age of 87 years.

Norma was born in Edmonton, AB, on January 20, 1939. She was raised on a farm near New Serepta, AB, about 50 kms Southeast of Edmonton. She graduated from Camrose College and later married Erich. She moved her family as needed to wherever Erich’s job took them. They lived in isolated, tiny towns in northern Saskatchewan, British Columbia, and the Yukon. Norma learned to tan hides for mukluks and sew beautiful, winter parkas to protect her family from the northern winters. Later, the family moved to Calgary, where Norma quickly found work at Augsburg Fortress Publishing. She progressed from a warehouse worker to a bookkeeper and retired in 1997 as the office manager.

Norma enjoyed family times spent camping and cooking meals over an open fire. She watched her kids anxiously while they paddled around on mountain lakes, trusting that if there was any trouble, Erich, who could swim, would rescue them. Farm life taught her the building blocks to become an amazing cook. She prepared dishes like rouladen, Yorkshire pudding, and cinnamon buns that were out of this world delicious. No matter how many dozen she made, her family devoured them in days, so she was never able to save any for special occasions.

She made new friends wherever she went, welcoming people to chat with her warm conversational style. She had many long-term friendships that have lasted multiple decades.

Norma and Erich traveled in Canada, the USA, Hawaii, Costa Rica, and made several trips to Europe. In the '80s, Norma began a journey to follow her roots, taking her to Eastern Canada, North Dakota, and Germany.

Her proudest accomplishment was giving life to her two daughters, Sandra and Shelley.

Norma was kind and caring, giving generously of both her time and money. She volunteered for the Hope Lutheran Home Communion Program, the Lutheran Hospital Ministry, and the Calgary Pastoral Care Group, where she was honoured to share time, tales, and prayers with many people.

She was a longstanding member of the Stampede African Violet Club, organizing shows, teaching propagation techniques, and was an avid grower of beautiful plants. At times, she had more than 1,000 plants, running out of shelves for both plants, ribbons, and trophies.

Norma was a woman of strong faith who gave more than she took.

"And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13.

Norma is survived by her daughter, Sandra Kunzel of Calgary, AB. She was predeceased by her husband of almost 65 years, Erich Kunzel, whom she married in 1958, and her daughter, Shelley Kunzel. She is also predeceased by her parents, Georg and Rose Riehl, and her brothers, Alvin and Ray Riehl.

Funeral Services will be held at Hope Lutheran Church (3527 Boulton Road N.W., Calgary, AB) on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Church Hall. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery (3219 4 Street N.W., Calgary, AB).

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the charity of your choice.

In living memory of Norma Kunzel, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes

Live-streaming of the memorial service will be available for those unable to attend in person.  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hopelutheranchurchyyc9976/streams