Norma was born at home in Doty, Washington, and passed away at home in Aberdeen, Washington, at the age of 96.

She was born to Erma and Milbourn Skelton and joined a sister, Evelyn, and brother, Ken. She graduated from Chehalis High School and moved to Aberdeen afterward, to work in the shipyards.

This is where she met her future husband, Philip Herbig. They married in 1946 and started a family which grew to six children. In 1948, they opened their first jewelry store, Phil’s Jewel Box, in the D&R Building. She and Phil worked side by side to grow their business and they moved to a few locations over the years. After his death in 1996, she continued to work with her son, Mark, well into her 80s.

In the late 1970s they developed Herbig Heights, here in Aberdeen; they built many custom homes there as well as donated a park area to the city of Aberdeen.

Norma was active in Zonta and Beta Sigma Phi and served as Advisor in both clubs. She loved playing Bridge and belonged to several groups. She was a voracious reader and was never without a book and a crossword puzzle. The family had a summer home on Lost Lake for many years and Norma had a large vegetable garden there, but it was her Chili and Clam Chowder that she was famous for. She taught everyone how to water-ski and never even tried it herself! She loved to travel with her children, who included her often, and especially enjoyed cruises and Palm Springs. She was open to go anywhere and try anything (almost!) at the drop of a hat. Her good nature and witty sense of humor made her a joy to be around. She was an avid dog lover and always had one at her side.

Norma is survived by her children, David (Danita) Herbig of Bellevue, Washington, Karen Houghton of St. Louis, Missouri, Judith Schwartz of Medina, Washington, and Mark Herbig (Frank); son-in-law, Mike Hermsen; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by daughters Janet Hermsen and Elizabeth Herbig.

The family wants to thank Dr. Gibbs and his staff and her caregiver, Barb Claxton, for her amazing care & love for their Mother, the last few years of her life. Her devotion was apparent and Norma blossomed She was laid to rest beside her husband Phil at Sunset Memorial Park in Hoquiam.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to PAWS or the charity of your choice. To share memories or leave a condolence for the family please visit www.harrisonfamilymortuary.com Arrangements are entrusted to Harrison Family Mortuary in Aberdeen.