Norma B. Koshalek

Norma B. Koshalek, age 81, passed away into eternal life on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Agrace Hospice surrounded by her family.

Norma was born on October 31, 1943 in Sacramento, CA, the first child of William B. and Mildred McCrary. Norma graduated from Kenosha Bradford High School in 1961. She attended Edgewood College-Madison and University of Wisconsin-Madison. On May 20, 1971, Norma married John Koshalek in Madison; they spent 54 years together. Norma loved to travel; she and John traveled the world, with extensive travels in North America. Norma’s desire to see the world never wavered. She was planning additional travels shortly before her death.

Norma was employed for many years by AT&T as a long-distance operator in Madison. However, Norma considered her primary occupation as an artist. She did constructions early in her career as an artist. She changed her focus to jewelry; making exquisite jewelry that was sold at the Chicago Art Institute Museum, Store, the Chicago Contemporary Art Museum, and George Watts in Milwaukee, among other places. Norma also did art shows around the state including the art fair on the square for many years. She was a member of the Madison Art Guild for many years. She served as president of the Guild for one term.

One of Norma’s great passions was alpine skiing. Each year she would go to Montana with her friends to ski. She was a proud member of the Devil’s Head Ski Patrol for more then 30 years. During that time, she was on instructor with the patrol. Norma was an avid sports fan. She was a strong supporter of the Badgers. She and her husband had season Badger football and hockey tickets for many years.

Norma was a collector of art books, a collection she added to every year. She also had a passion for poetry and literature which she enjoyed her entire life.

Norma was a beautiful person who possessed the qualities that we admire in people. She was a kind person who had empathy and compassion for other people. Norma had a great curiosity and a strong desire to learn. She had a wonderful life which she clearly deserved. She was a special lady who will be missed by all who knew her.

Norma will be deeply missed by her husband of 54 years, John, as well as other relatives and friends.

A private service will be held.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services

608-238-3434