Norma Klaehn

Norma Jean Klaehn, age 95, of Adams, formerly of Dexter, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Cedar Court Care Center in Adams. She was surrounded by the love of family and friends during the final days of her life.

Norma Jean Plymate was born on January 8, 1931, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Oliver and LeVon Plymate. She graduated from Elkton High School in 1948 and married her high school sweetheart, Loren “Doc” Klaehn, in 1950. Together they farmed in the Dexter area for many years before moving to Cedar Court in 2013.

Norma devoted her life to serving others. She was a passionate advocate for children with disabilities and their families and was among the founders of the Parenting Resource Center in Austin. Through her work as a counselor and as the original voice of the Parent Warmline, she provided encouragement, guidance, and support to countless families. Her advocacy extended to working with civic and government leaders to create greater opportunities and fewer barriers for children with disabilities.

Faith was at the center of Norma’s life. She and Doc were devoted members of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Elkton, where she served on numerous committees, sang in the choir, and led Bible studies and prayer groups. Her steadfast faith was reflected in her daily life, her kindness toward others, and her genuine love for family and friends.

Norma also enjoyed sewing and spent many hours creating treasured items that can be found in homes throughout southeast Minnesota. She loved collecting salt and pepper shakers, amassing a collection of more than 500 pairs over the years. She was a gifted storyteller who cherished sharing memories of days gone by and compiled many of her stories into a collection titled Between the Stitches for family and friends.

Norma is survived by her sons, Bruce (Lynette) Klaehn of Eyota and Jack (Tam) Klaehn of Dexter; grandchildren, Scott (Jackie) Klaehn of South St. Paul, Luke Klaehn of Rochester, Bret (Lisa) Klaehn of Lanesboro, Sarah (Jeff) of Eyota, Sam Klaehn of Adams, and Macy (Jase) of Blair, Wisconsin; 11 beloved great-grandchildren; siblings, Peggy of Austin, Denny of Rochester, Cheri (Keith) of Denver, Colorado, and Steve (Lisa) of Seattle, Washington; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Loren “Doc” Klaehn; son, Robert Klaehn; and her parents, Oliver and LeVon Plymate.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Cedar Court Care Center for the compassionate care, friendship, and support they provided to Doc and Norma throughout their 13 years there. They also thank the St. Croix Hospice team for their loving care and Pastor Matt Ryan for his faithful support and comfort during Norma’s final days.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes in Austin. Guests are invited to wear their favorite Minnesota Twins attire in honor of Norma. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Elkton. Interment will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Elkton. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.