Norman Otto Brenna, 73, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home on April 17, 2025. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Norman lived a life of quiet strength, generosity, and devotion to those he loved.
Norman was raised in Ulen, Minnesota, and graduated from Ulen High School in 1969. Following graduation, he proudly served in the United States Marine Corps until 1973, with time stationed in Japan. After his military service, he earned his degree in accounting from Winona State University.
He spent 30 years working for the Internal Revenue Service as an Agent, serving with integrity and professionalism until his retirement in 2007.
On June 3, 1983, Norman married Kathleen Martell. Together, they shared 41 years of love, laughter, and adventure. He was a longtime member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Plummer, where he served faithfully as treasurer for many years.
Norman loved to read and was rarely without a book in hand. He found joy in the simple pleasures—spending summer days outdoors watching birds, heading to the casino when he felt lucky (and returning when his luck ran out), and enjoying winters in Texas with Kathy. For the past 15 years, they spent those winters taking long walks, playing Mexican Train dominoes, and enjoying time with their close-knit group of Texan friends.
He treasured hunting trips with his son Erik. In earlier years, they were serious outings, but as time passed, Norman often left the gun behind and the trips became more about enjoying the moment—and taking a nap—while Erik waited for the big buck to come their way.
He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Kathy; his children: Krista Brenna (Corey), Erik (Amy) Brenna, Jason Fimrite (Lorrie), and JaCinda (Scott) Degelder; grandchildren: Jordan, MacKenzie, Spencer, Jayde, Mya, Dawson, Abigail, Henry, and Daisy; and great-grandchild Steele. He is also survived by his sisters: Jean Hanson, Barb Schenck, and Randi Lloyd.
Norman was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Delores Brenna.
Norman’s legacy lives on in the memories held close and the quiet strength and humor he passed on to all who knew and loved him.
Funeral for Norman will be held 1:00 pm on Friday, April 25, 2025 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Plummer, MN with Reverend Jonathan Dodson officiating. Burial will be held at Keene Cemetery in rural Ulen, MN approximately 4:30 on Friday. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.