Norine Vaagene

Norine Gayle Vaagene, 84, of West Fargo, passed away  Sunday, November 30th 2025, at SMP Health, St. Catherine South, in Fargo under the care of HIA Hospice.

Norine was born February 16, 1941, in Oakley, MN, the daughter of Melvin C. Hanson and Edna (Nelson) Hanson.    She was raised in Hatton, ND and graduated from Hatton Public School.  Norine married Paul Vaagene November 8, 1974, in South Dakota.

Norine was a stay-at-home Mom of her five children.  She never recovered from the loss of her son, Scott, when he was six months old, and daughter, Heidi Schaeffer in 2018.  Norine was always a care giver and loved her kids with her whole heart.  Paul, Norine and the kids spent the summers at the lakes area around Vergus, MN. 

She was employed for ten years by Sheyenne Cable TV in West Fargo.  Norine’s appearance was always important, never leaving the house without her hair, makeup and nails perfectly done.

Among many things, Norine enjoyed Christmas as her favorite holiday and time of year.  Norine enjoyed going to garage sales and had a special fondness for the Dakota Boys Ranch and more recently Home Goods. Every item in Norine’s home was precious, no matter its value.  She jokingly asked if you had a quarter before letting you touch anything.  She loved to cook and bake, was a talented crafter, especially known for making light blocks and puppy wreaths with her sister, Eileen.

Surviving is her husband:  Paul; children:  Matthew Pladson,  of West Fargo, ND; Eric Pladson of Hatton, ND and Nathan (Niki) Vaagene of West Fargo;  grandchildren:  Amber, Jessica, Connor, Brittany, Kayley, Kaitlynn, Noah, and Avery; great-grandchildren: Ayden, Colter, Atticus and Sylvia.

Norine’s battle with Alzheimer’s/dementia was hard fought.  She just wanted to go home and now she is with daughter:  Heidi Shaeffer; infant son: Scott;  parents; and siblings:  Clarence, Vernon and Eileen.  We are glad she is at peace.

The family of Norine would like to thank HIA Hospice, Heather’s House, and SMP Health St. Catherine South for their kindness and  compassion.

Memorial Service:  2 pm Thursday, December 4, 2025, at West Funeral Home in West Fargo.

Visitation:  An hour before the service

Interment:  Fargo National Cemetery, at a later date.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com

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