Date of Birth:
Friday, November 11, 1932
Date of Death:
Friday, January 16, 2026
Age:
93 years old

Norman Lee Perlenfein

Norman Lee Perlenfein

Norman Lee Perlenfein was born on November 11, 1932, in Bonesteel, South Dakota, to Henry and Agnes (Warnke) Perlenfein. He passed away peacefully on Friday, January 16, 2026, at his residence at Shorewood Senior Living, in Rochester, Minnesota.

Norm was a 1950 graduate of Bonesteel High School. He went on to attend Brown’s Institute in Minneapolis, Minnesota, graduating in 1958. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1953 to 1957.

Throughout his working life, Norm was known for his strong work ethic and versatility. He worked as a ranch hand, on survey crews, and in construction, helping to build the Fort Randall Dam. After earning his electronic technician degree, he began a long and dedicated career with the Federal Aviation Administration, where he worked for 35 years.

In February 1959, Norm married the love of his life, Genevieve Rogers, at the Basilica in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Together they shared 66 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and companionship.

Norm enjoyed golfing and proudly recorded two holes-in-one during his lifetime. He was an avid bowler and achieved a perfect 300 game at the age of 80. Norm and Genevieve loved playing bridge and spending weekends dancing. After retiring, they enjoyed spending their winters in Florida.

Norm loved fishing and hunting, especially duck hunting with his son and grandson. A true handyman, he could fix just about anything and took great pleasure in teaching others how to do the same. He was a devoted husband, an excellent father, and a proud grandfather. Norm was always willing to help others, was a great storyteller, and was well known for his “dad” and grandpa jokes.

He was a faithful member of St. Pius X Catholic Church, serving as an usher and greeter, making everyone feel welcome. Norm was a member of the American Legion and Toastmasters and enjoyed conversation and community wherever he went.

Norm is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Genevieve; his children, Thomas (Cathi) Perlenfein and Holly (John) Tuseth; his grandchildren, John Tuseth, Steven Perlenfein, Jenna Tuseth, and Scott (Whitney) Perlenfein; and his great-grandchildren, Greyson Tuseth and Eleanor Perlenfein.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Agnes Perlenfein; his brother, Marvin Perlenfein; and his sister, Donna Stanton.

A Memorial Mass will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 26, 2026 at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 1315 12^th Ave. NW, Rochester, MN 55901. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until time of the service. Burial will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Pius X Catholic Church in memory of Norm.