Norma Jean McLane

Norma Jean McLane, 95, of Ft. Collins, CO and formerly of Pecatonica, IL died under hospice care in Ft. Collins on April 11, 2026. Mrs. McLane was born to Herman and Mattie Stratmann on May 13, 1930; the second youngest of six children. Due to the death of her mother, Norma, age 13 months, moved to live with her Aunt Mary and Uncle John Dieken. Hereinafter known as aunt/mother and uncle/dad; still maintaining contact with her birth family. She attended Pecatonica High School, graduating in 1948. Upon graduation, she met and married William (Bill) McLane. They settled in Pecatonica, IL to raise three sons; as well as supporting her young sister in-law, Ruth, through her high school years. Norma was active in assisting the family with the farm and weekly sale barn operations. She, also, participated in the VFW Auxiliary, morning coffee meetings with neighbors and briefly operated her own restaurant. In 1973, the McLane’s moved to Ft Collins, CO to be close to their sons. Norma worked in retail. She was employed at WalGreen’s Grill before moving to Montgomery Wards; managing appliances and men’s clothing. She retired in 1987 Upon retirement, the McLane’s toured the country in their motorhome visiting family and friends; continuing an old family reunion tradition. Upon Bill’s death in 2007, the telephone and internet helped her stay in touch with everyone. Norma was passionate about keeping family and friends close, believing that life was better surrounded by all; especially the little ones. With that said: there was always room for one more at the table. She is survived by her sons Wayne (daughter Melissa Ruebush, son Dan Bittle), Joel and his Wife Sharon (daughter Shari Hanson-McLane, sons Christopher Hanson-McLane and Jacob),; Doug and his wife Chia (sons Kenneth, Michael and Andrew (AJ). Cousin/sister Deloris Hines. All in the Ft. Collins/Loveland area. Norma was blessed with fourteen great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. She is preceded in death by husband William (Bill), granddaughter Angela Wright, Sisters Verona, Marjorie, Harlina, brothers Herman (Bud), Myron (Mike) and cousin/brother Don.

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Norma Jean McLane

May 13, 1930 - April 11, 2026