Norman Eugene Punches

Norman Eugene Punches, 77, of La Grande, died, Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at his home. At his request there will be no services held. A viewing was held on Friday, October 13, 2006 from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Daniels Chapel of the Valley, 1502 7th Street, La Grande, Oregon.

Norman was born on August 26, 1929, the son of George and Lorretta (Curtis) Punches in La Grande. As a child he was raised by his grandparents. He graduated from La Grande High School with the class of 1947. After high school, Norman went to work for Union Pacific Railroad from 1947 until 1952. On January 1, 1952 he married Jacquelyn Ramsey and together the couple raised three children. In 1952 Norman went to work for Bohnenkamps Plumbing & Heating before going to work for Eastern Oregon University from 1968 until his retirement in 1992.


He was a member of the Oregon National Guard as a 2nd lieutenant, past President of the La Grande Swim Club for 10 years, Manager of the Veterans Memorial Pool for 12 years, received the EOU Distinguished Classified Staff award in 1983 and was recognized by EOU for his dedication and commitment to Easterns Physical Education and Athletic Programs.

Norman is survived by his wife, Jacque Punches of La Grande; children and their spouses, Pam and Bob Thompson of La Grande, Rod and Kenna Punches of Boardman, Oregon, and Kim and John Hickman of Milwaukie, Oregon; sister and brother-in-law, Lorraine and Ehrman Bates of La Grande; two grandsons and two granddaughters and other relatives and friends.


Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Norman E. Punches to the Special Olympics Oregon of Union County in care of Daniels Chapel of the Valley, 1502 7th Street, La Grande, Oregon 97850.