Norman George Claypool

Norman “Grizzly Norm” Claypool passed away on February 25, 2021 in his home in Spokane, WA. He was born to George and Edna (Swanson) Claypool on June 3, 1928 in Malta, MT. After the death of his father at 18 months of age, he called many places home moving frequently with his widowed mother. After graduating from Havre High School in Montana, he joined the regular Army serving as a military policeman stationed in Korea. Following his service, Norm attended the University of Montana, graduating with a business degree, that he used working in the crop/hail insurance industry. He caught the eye of a spunky grade school teacher from Minnesota, Lois Kriesel, to whom he was married for 56 years. They had two sons Todd (Shawn) Claypool, Brian Claypool, two grandchildren Jack and Halle Claypool, and a daughter Amy (Rick) Byrum. Norm was a loyal husband and immense sports fan. He has a memory for details and incredible knack for connecting people. He always knew someone, who knew someone, who you may know. Norm was a lifelong Christian and member of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church (BSLC). He supported many charities including, BSLC, University of Montana, KEWU Jazz and Meals on Wheels. A military memorial service will be held, later in the spring, at the Washington State Veteran’s Cemetery.