Judith Norberg

Norberg, Judith Norene

Age 84, of Roseville, passed away June 27th, 2021, surrounded by family who loved her dearly. Preceded in death by parents, Russell and Marie Norberg; and niece, Carol Ann Petersen.  Survived by life partner, Lyndon Johnson; brothers, Russell (Gwen) Norberg and David (Arlene) Norberg; niece, Nancee (Guy) Roach; nephews, Daniel (Sophia) Norberg and Jon (Christine) Norberg; many grand nieces and nephews; dear friend, Alice Shea; countless other friends and former art students.

Judith was born on the farm in Oklee, Minnesota on September 1st, 1936, the middle child of Russell and Marie Norberg.  Growing up on the farm with her brothers, Russ and David, grounded her and filled her with a compassionate quiet fortitude for the ups and downs of life. She graduated from Oklee High School in 1954 and went on to get her teaching degree from Bemidji State University in 1958.  For 34 years, she faithfully taught art at Fridley High School and inspired a plethora of students to treasure art and hone their skills.  Judith was an amazing artist in her own right, especially watercolor painting, and displayed and sold her works for many years at the Uptown Art Fair and other venues.  She made everything more beautiful whether it was a birthday card written with her exquisite calligraphy or a garden landscaped according to her artistic eye and flare for blending colors. She always dressed with class and looked particularly stunning in purple and magenta.

Some time in the early 1960s, she fell in love with a fellow teacher and wrestling coach, Lyndon Johnson, who would be by her side until the end. They traveled to all 50 states and avidly adventured to 26 countries together.  He never let her drive, but he did entertain her with countless stories and treated her like the queen she was.  He brought out her optimistic nature and infectious laugh with ease. They were best friends and confidantes, and he will deeply miss her.

A celebration of Judy’s life will be held on Friday, July 23rd at 4:00 P.M. at Bradshaw Funeral Home and Celebration of Life Center, 2800 Curve Crest Boulevard, Stillwater, Minnesota.  Attendees are encouraged to enjoy some refreshments on their own in Stillwater after the memorial.  Memorial gifts may be made to the Minneapolis Institute of Art https://tickets.artsmia.org/products/donate