Norman W Laufer

Norman W. Laufer, 84, New Palestine, Indiana passed away February 6, 2023 in Fishers, Indiana.  He was born on May 28, 1938 in New Palestine, Indiana to Clarence and Anna C.(Noelting) Laufer.

Norm is survived by his sister Martha A Shore; nephews Wayne Horman, Paul Horman, Craig Laufer and David Shore; nieces Cheryl Ricker, Chris Brinson, Debbie Poor and Dianna Dowdy, his long time right hand man who is like a son, Russell Dove and Lilli Dove who he loved like a granddaughter.  He had 15 great nieces and nephews and 5 great-great nieces and nephews who loved him very much. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Dorothy Irene Laufer Horman and Emma Pauline Laufer and his brother Erwin Elmer Laufer.

Norm enjoyed being a lifetime farmer in the New Palestine area.  After serving his country as a Chaplain's Assistant in the Air Force in Chateauroux, France, Norm returned home to the community he loved dearly.  He was involved in many organizations over the years, often serving on boards and helping them reach their goals.  Norm served on the Hancock County Soil and Water Board as well as the Growers Mutual Board and the Hancock County Co-op.  He was a longtime volunteer and board member of the Southeastway Park Board.  He could often be found helping to tap the maple trees for syrup and entertain visitors of all ages during the annual Bug Fest at Southeastway Park.  Norm was Valedictorian of his New Palestine High School Class of 1956.  He was a founding member of the New Palestine Alumni Association and made sure to attend all of the All Class Reunions that were held annually.  Being a Veteran was near and dear to Norm's heart. Norm was a member of the New Palestine American Legion Post #182.  If he wasn't serving food at poker night with the Legion, he was volunteering with Indy Honor Flight.  He was honored to both go on an Indy Honor Flight trip to Washington, DC and help other Veterans go on their trips as well.  Norm was also a member of Zion Lutheran Church.  He was devoted to his church and never missed an opportunity to support the church, especially when there was a spaghetti dinner to attend.  Norm was truly a bright star, his wit and humor was unmatched, he always had a smile on his face and a funny story to tell. 

A Graveside service will be on Monday, February 20, 2023, at 5:00pm at Zion Lutheran Church, 6513 West 300 South, New Palestine, Indiana, 46163 with Visitation from 3:00pm until time of service at the church.  Officiating the service will be Pastor Jason Taylor. Burial will be in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery, New Palestine, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Norm's memory to either Indy Honor Flight (PO Box 10, Plainfield IN 46168 or online at https://indyhonorflight.org/donate/) or Zion Lutheran Church (6513 West 300 South, New Palestine, Indiana, 46163). 

Online condolences at www.bellmortuary.com

Arrangements handled by Bell Mortuary & Crematory, Shangrila Chapel, 1444 West US Hwy 52, Fountaintown, IN  46130.

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