Obituary - Norman Emal Whaley, 85

Norman Emal Whaley was born on May 18, 1918, in Kiowa County. He was the oldest child of Mary (Buck) and Clifford Whaley. Norman, his sister Lova, and brother Roy grew up on the family farm northwest of Eads. A farmer all of his life, Norman lived through the Depression, the dust bowl of the 1930’s and the drought of the 1950’s. He would often tell stories of the dirt storms and the different struggles that his family faced in these adverse situations.

Norman and Lena Sweeney were married on August 15, 1935 in Eads. Their daughter, Retha Arlene, was born on July 24, 1936. "Babe," as Retha was affectionately called by her parents, died as a result of a car accident on October 5, 1955.

Norman and Lena worked side by side on their farm for many years. Farming was Norman’s life, and he was very particular about his fields. He was known and respected for his farming methods and up-to-date equipment. Second only to Norman’s love for Lena and family was his John Deere machinery.

In January 2003, Norman’s health began to fail. After a brief illness, Norman passed away at Weisbrod Memorial Hospital on June 2, 2003, at the age of 85 years and 15 days. Pastor Donald Lott performed the graveside service on June 5. Norman is survived by his wife, Lena, and sister Lova Coberly of Missouri. His daughter, his parents, and brother preceded him in death.