Date of Birth:
Friday, September 30, 1938
Date of Death:
Thursday, February 27, 2025
Age:
86 years old

Norma Jean Ball

Norma Jean Ball, age 86, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, February 27, 2025, surrounded by her children and grandchildren. Norma’s family was always at the heart of her life, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion to her loved ones.
Born on September 30, 1938, in Estelline, South Dakota, to Lafayette and Jabina Ball, Norma was the eldest of five children. She grew up in South Dakota and remained close to her siblings throughout her life. In her final hours, Norma shared conversations with her siblings over the phone, reminding everyone of the importance of family bonds.
Norma married Meynardo Magtibay in 1957, and together they raised a beautiful family. She worked for many years at Mayo Clinic in the medical records department before retiring. While she enjoyed her work, her greatest joy came from her roles as a mother and Nana. Norma’s children and grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she found fulfillment in looking after them and keeping her home a place of warmth and love.
Throughout her life, Norma was known for her independence and strength. She remained active until the end, driving herself to run errands and tending to her home, flowers, and family. Her love for flowers was evident, with always something in bloom in her home. Her passion for travel and new experiences, along with her deep love of reading, were also integral parts of her life. Norma also had a love of cats, especially her beloved, Sobe.
Norma had a strong and unwavering faith. Every morning, she read devotions and found comfort in her rosary, often praying alongside Sister Angelica on EWTN. She attended Mass regularly and, later in life, watched it via video stream. Her home was filled with images of Jesus and crucifixes that served as reminders of her faith. She often burned palms for comfort during storms and positioned crucifixes in the homes of her children, ensuring that her love and faith would always watch over them.
Norma is survived by her six children: Diane McQuillan of Kaufman, TX; Debra (Steven) Berland of Rochester, MN; Donna Magtibay (Darryl Becker) of Rochester, MN; Darla Magtibay (Jan Miller) of Keller, TX; Paul (Barb) Magtibay of Cave Creek, AZ; and Danelle Magtibay (Craig Harting) of Farmington, MN. She is also survived by twelve grandchildren: Katharine (Joshua) Wilkowski, Emily McQuillan, Rebecca McQuillan, Charles Berland, John (Hailey) Becker, Anthony Becker, Paul Magtibay, Joan Magtibay, Peter Magtibay, Jack Magtibay, Shaun Harting, and Kristina Harting, as well as two great-grandchildren, Avery and Eric Wilkowski.
She is also survived by her siblings, Dale (Dottie) Ball, Maxine Person, Pat (Richard) Spotanski, and Judd (Janet) Ball, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A private family service will be held at the Co-Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery.
Norma’s life was a beautiful example of faith, love, and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love of her family and the comfort of her strong faith.
Memorials contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital or to the Catholic Charities.