Norman Lee Primmer

Norman Lee Primmer of Dewar, IA, passed away on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Unity Point Hospital, surrounded by his family. He was 85 years old.

Born on July 18, 1940, in La Porte City, IA, he was the son of James and Lois (Burrows) Primmer. From a young age, he developed a passion for the outdoors, enjoying both hunting and fishing. His adventurous spirit led him to join the United States Army during his senior year of high school, where he earned his GED. Norman served his country with pride for four years until an injury led to his honorable discharge.

Norman's zest for life extended beyond his military service. An avid collector of old cars, he had a story to tell about how he met the love of his life. Driving his candy apple red car one day in the early 60s, he found himself on a street that would change his life forever. Peeking out the window of a nearby home was Becky Cue, curious about the car that had drawn her attention. Their connection blossomed, and after Norman called her up and asked her out—following her polite need to consult her mother—they married on August 4, 1962, at the Jesup Methodist Church. Together, they shared 63 wonderful years filled with love and companionship, welcoming three children into their lives, Michael, Gary, and JoLynn.

After his military service, Norman held various jobs, including positions at Waterloo Register and John Deere, eventually becoming a supervisor at Waterloo Industry before retiring in 1989. In 2003, in search of warmer climates, Norman and Becky moved to Golden Valley, AZ. However, in 2016, they decided to return to Iowa to be closer to their family.

A true car aficionado, Norman relished in the collection and restoration of vintage automobiles. He often attended car shows, relishing the thrill of searching for his next purchase. A few months before his health declined, Norman reached out to his son-in-law, Tony, asking for a ride to the bank with the intent of buying a green car he had spotted for sale. It turned out to be his old car, a testament to his lifelong passion. As a proud member of Black Hawk County Street Rods, Norman found great joy in sharing this love with fellow enthusiasts.

Known for being a people person, Norman was never shy to strike up a conversation with anyone he met. His generous spirit was evident in his willingness to help anyone in need, often offering assistance without hesitation. Additionally, he had a keen interest in collecting guns and coins, frequently asking Becky to make bank trips for rolls of coins and inviting his daughter to bring over her change jar for his scrutiny. His fondness for military memorabilia showcased another layer of his diverse interests.

Norman is preceded in death by his parents; one great-grandson, Lennox Weitnauer; two brothers, Melvin and Larry Primmer; and mother and father-in-law, Josephine and Grover Cue.

He is survived by his wife, Becky of Dewar, IA; two sons, Michael Primmer of AZ and Gary Primmer of Dewar, IA; one daughter, JoLynn (Tony) Primmer-Menuey of Raymond, IA; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Diana Robinson of Dunkerton, IA.

Norman Lee Primmer leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. His impact on those fortunate enough to encounter him and the warmth he brought into their lives will not be forgotten. His family and friends will gather to honor his memory with a visitation on October 7, 2025, at Parrott & Wood Chapel of Memories in Waterloo, IA, and continue with a funeral service with Military Honors on October 8, 2025, at 10:30 am, ensuring that his spirit is celebrated and remembered with the love he so generously shared.