Norma Jean Peterson

Norma Jean Peterson passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, at the age of 93, at Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital in Burlington, Colorado, surrounded by the love of her family.

Norma was born on May 23, 1932, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Tony and Mary Jane Scaturo. She was raised alongside her older brother, Gilbert Pinell. She grew up in Colorado Springs and attended Colorado Springs High School, now known as Palmer High School.

Norma had a lifelong love of reading and classic films—passions she enjoyed until her eyesight no longer allowed her to read. She often said, “The places you can go by just reading.” A humble and unassuming woman, Norma preferred to stay in the background rather than seek recognition.  Norma graduated in the top 10 of a class of over 400 students in 1950 and was awarded a full-ride scholarship to Colorado College.  She never felt it was necessary to mention this.

Instead of pursuing college, Norma chose to marry the love of her life, Earl Gary. They were married on June 16, 1950, just two weeks after her graduation, and began their life together in Colorado Springs. They welcomed their first son, Gary Alan, on October 2, 1952, followed by Randall Lee on August 26, 1955. The family later moved to Idaho Springs, Colorado, where their son Brian Lynn was born in 1959 and was received into heaven shortly after birth.

In 1963, Gary and Norma moved their family to Burlington, Colorado, which became their lifelong home. Norma was known for her ever-present smile, gentle spirit, and unwavering kindness. She had a servant’s heart and found joy in helping others—whether preparing meals, serving in her church, or volunteering in her community. She dedicated over 26 years volunteering as a travel counselor at the Colorado Welcome Center in Burlington and spent more than a decade delivering Meals on Wheels.  She was truly selfless.

Norma was a devoted and loving grandmother. She treasured her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, making it a priority to be present in their lives—attending events, offering support, and always making time for them. Her love and presence created cherished memories that will live on in each of their hearts.

Norma and Gary celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary last June, a remarkable milestone that reflected a lifetime of love, faith, and devotion. Together, they exemplified a strong and Godly marriage.

Above all, Norma loved her family and her Lord. She led by quiet example, demonstrating faith, compassion, and grace in all she did.  She was small in stature but giant in her faith.

Norma is survived by her loving husband, Earl Gary; her son Gary Alan (Rhonda) and their sons Bryant (Danielle), children Emmy and Roman, and Parker, all of Burlington, Colorado; and her son Randall Lee (Shelly) and their children: Justin (Nichole), son Bandon, of Austin, Texas; Gregory and his son Carson, of San Antonio, Texas; and Brianne (Toby Kechter), children Jaylyn, Gabe, Skyler, and Ella, of Kirk, Colorado.

She was preceded in death by her father, Tony Scaturo; her mother, Mary Jane Titmus; her brother, Gilbert Pinell; her infant son, Brian Lynn; and numerous other beloved family members.

Norma Jean will be deeply missed, but her family finds comfort in the assurance that they will see her again in heaven.

Norma never let a friend or family member leave without speaking a prayer and blessing over them: “Angels encamped around about you, the Holy Spirit guiding you in all your ways, in Jesus’ name.”

Funeral Services will be held on March 23, 2026 at the Bethel Assembly of God in Burlington, CO at 10:30 am with Internment to follow at Fairview Cemetery in Burlington, CO.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Norma's name to:

Focus on the Family Option Ultrasound
8605 Explorer Dr,, Colorado Springs CO 80920
Tel: 1-800-232-6459
Email: help@focusonthefamily.com
Web: https://www.focusonthefamily.com/pro-life/option-ultrasound-life-advocate/

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