NORRIS M. HOLSTAD, 81, a longtime Pullman resident, passed away Nov. 9, 2015 at Avalon Care Center in Pullman, WA. The memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Monday, Nov. 16, 2015 at the Community Congregational United Church of Christ 525 NE Campus St., in Pullman. Norris was born Nov. 15, 1933 in LaFarge, Wisconsin to Emil & Stella (Upsahl) Holstad. The family moved to Auburn, WA where Norris grew up and attended school. He graduated from Kent High School, following which he worked for Sears Roebuck for a time. In 1952 Norris moved to Pullman, attending Washington State College. He graduated with his bachelor's degree in Horticulture in 1956. Norris was a member of the WSU ROTC program during his time in school. Following his graduation Norris served in the US Army. Following his honorable discharge, Norris returned to Pullman where he married Jeanne Campbell on Sept. 1, 1961. Together they have made Pullman home since that time. Norris' career in the Horticulture department at WSU began in 1957 spanning 30 years upon his retirement in 1987. Norris was indeed a man of faith and family. He loved being a husband, father and grandfather. The time he spent gardening and tending to the family acreage brought much satisfaction. His interests were many and included gourmet cooking, family life, Cougar athletics. He and Jeanne always supported the WSU football, basketball (men's & women's) volleyball and baseball teams through the years. Norris was instrumental in supporting the building of SYG in Pullman. He was a member of the Community Congregational United Church of Christ serving in all aspects of church life from Sunday School Teacher to Committee Chair. He always took a special interest in the Thrift Shop. In addition Norris was a member of the WSU Retirees and the WSU Alumni Association. He is survived by his wife of 54 years Jeanne at the Pullman home; his children Deb Holstad of Pullman; Eric Holstad of Albion; Stephen (Donna) Holstad of Pullman; Doug (Chelsea) Holstad of Pullman and his four grandchildren Yara, James, Jared & Vaughn. Norris was preceded in death by his parents and sister Edna Hauser. Kimball Funeral Home of Pullman, WA is caring for the family. The family suggests memorials to the Community Congregational United Church of Christ, Pullman, WA.
