Norma Olson Matney, age 66, of Hydesville, CA, passed away on July 17th in Hydesville, CA.

Norma Olson was born in Fort Bragg, CA to Patricia Vogt and Neil Olson on the 21st of November in 1956. She went to high school in Mckinleyville, CA. She married Randy Matney on the 28th of September, 1978 in Seattle, WA. She dabbled as a cook for a few years before having children and becoming a homemaker.

Norma will be remembered for her kind and generous heart. You had truly never met a more selfless person. She was spontaneous and ready for any adventure, only limited by what her body could handle. She loved fiercely, felt deeply and lived in every happy moment. Some of her favorite activities included hanging out with her loved ones, loving on all her pets, horseback riding, swimming, camping, reading, drawing and doodling in the most random places.

Being in the presence of family and friends was one of her favorite pastimes. If you invited her to an event, she always attended — witnessing, enjoying and participating. Truly happy to be invited and included in anything and everything. Her pride and joy was watching the grandchildren grow; this included all children in her life no matter their relation. Their antics and milestones always brought a smile or laugh to her beautiful face.

Animals were her passion; they all loved her and she loved them. She rode horseback any chance she could get, feeling truly free. Riverbar swimming had become increasingly more difficult. She had exclaimed after falling the last time that she would be sticking to pools from here on out. We choose to believe she is now swimming, riding and running anywhere and anytime she wants.

As we grieve the sudden loss of Norma, for reasons still unknown, we should remember that she would never want her loved ones to feel regrets. She cherished every moment, conversation and picture shared with her no matter how big or small. We will all be thinking of her and continue to include her in all upcoming events and milestones where her presence will be missed. She would never miss these in life, by holding her in our hearts and minds the tradition of her presence will continue.

Norma is preceded in death by her mother Patricia Olson, father Neil Olson, brother Kenneth (Kenny) Olson and husband Randy Matney. Norma is survived by son Jesse Matney, daughter Amy Pattison, son-in-law William (B.J.) Pattison, sister Kerry Olson, brother-in-law Justin Carr, grandchildren Ava Pattison and Mya Pattison. There are friends and family and friends that become family, too many to list here.

Remembrance will be held at noon on the 5th of August in Fortuna, CA. Amy Pattison can be contacted for remembrance location and information via email: hello.amy.pattison@gmail.com.

We know many of her loved ones will not be able to make it to this remembrance. There will be a time later we can talk about her and remember together. The family of Norma wishes to extend our sincere thanks to those who have been able to help during these devastating times. You know who you are, we love and appreciate you!

###

The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Norma’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.