Norman N. Haugard

Norman Nielsen Haugard was born on September 23, 1940, in Rock Springs, Wyoming, to Knud and Elsie Haugard. He spent his early childhood in Green River, Wyoming, until the age of eight, when his family relocated to Pocatello, Idaho.

Norman, or Norm as his friends called him, attended Bonneville Elementary School and Franklin Junior High in Pocatello, Idaho. During his youth, he developed a love for fly fishing, snowmobiles, and motorcycles. One of his favorite bikes he ever had was a 1973 Yamaha. He shared many fond memories with his close friend John Lewis, cruising around town and enjoying the local dating scene. He graduated from Pocatello High School in May 1959.

While still in high school, Norm joined the Army National Guard. He served from 1958 to 1961, training at Fort Ord, California, and working as a supply clerk during his time in the service.

After completing his military service, Norm began working at a Chevrolet garage in 1962. He started by washing cars, driving the wrecker, working on the lube rack, and eventually entered the GM apprenticeship program. In 1973, he changed career paths and joined the Union Pacific Railroad, working in the maintenance-of-way shop. He dedicated 34 years to the railroad, retiring in 2002.

Norm had a deep love for animals, especially his two beloved dogs, Riley and Bingo, who were his constant companions. He made it a point to make regular donations to various advocacy groups for animals.

He enjoyed spending time with friends and traveling across the United States in his 1988 Ford motorhome. He often brought his mother along on his adventures to go fishing around the country. His favorite fishing destination was Dworshak Reservoir in Idaho, though he spent countless hours at American Falls Reservoir. There, he proudly caught an 11 lb., 6 oz. rainbow trout measuring 31 inches—an accomplishment he displayed with pride in his home.

He explored places like New York and Washington, D.C. with friends. He especially loved spending time in Bouse, Arizona, and Southern California. He cherished his friendships and often gathered with loved ones for holiday dinners, always enjoying a good homemade meal—especially dessert. A restaurant he dearly loved was Jumbo’s in Pocatello, he often met there with friends and was recognized almost as family by the restaurant.

Those who knew him well will remember his daily breakfast of two eggs and two to three pieces of bacon, and his fondness for sweets and what he affectionately called “munchies.” He took great pride in keeping his home and vehicles clean. Later in life, Norm developed a passion for computers, a reflection of his interest in HAM radios as a young man. He tinkered with anything he could.

Norm had many friends, too many to list here, but he cherished those relationships above all else. He kept his friends close, and his greatest memories were fishing, eating, recreating, and, on occasion, “drinking a brewski.”

Norm passed away peacefully May 6, 2025 surrounded by his friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Knud, and his mother, Elsie Haugard.

A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 from 1-2 pm with a memorial service following, starting at 2 pm, at Wilks Funeral Home, 211 W. Chubbuck Rd. Chubbuck, ID.

Memories and condolences may be shared using the guestbook below.