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ARLOWE -- Norma Jean passed away surrounded by her family and friends on October 16, 2004, following a brief illness. Born Norma Jean Swanson in Greeley, Colorado on July 12, 1932, she grew up in Greeley, graduating from the Colorado State College of Education there. After graduating, she traveled and worked throughout the West before moving to Albuquerque. There she met and married Duane Arlowe in 1966. Norma's heart had an endless capacity for love. She was a lifelong collector of friends and her supply of friendship, caring and compassion only grew with each addition. Her many friends will sorely miss her. Her P.E.O. sisters counted on her love, support and leadership. Throughout her life, Norma sought to be of service to others. She ran the used book store at the Erna Ferguson Branch of the Albuquerque Public Library for 10 years and later became a dedicated Friends of the Library booksale volunteer at the main branch. Besides her family and friends, Norma's two loves were travel and books. Her favorite travel destination was Bandon-by-the-Sea on the Oregon Coast. Her book collection covers the walls of her home, but everywhere she went, there were always so many new treasures to acquire. She is survived by her husband Duane; her sister and brother-in-law Beryl and Thad Van Noy of Oakland, California; her son Steven and his wife Danielle of Minneapolis, Minnesota; her son Robert and his wife Catherine and their children, Barrett and Adelaide. She adored her grandchildren and couldn't wait for the birth of her third grandchild, expected in Minneapolis early next year. She also adored her "honorary" grandchildren, Taylor, Morgan and Asa Tafoya. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Laureen Sheldon and her Mother-in-Law, Georgia Arlowe, both of Oakland, California, as well as her niece, nephews, and grand-niece and nephews. A Memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Albuquqerque on Tuesday, October 19 at 7 pm. In Lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Norma Arlowe Memorial Fund for the Albuquerque Public Library.
        Published on: Mon October 18, 2004