With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life filled with love, we announce the passing of Norman E. Godden, who peacefully passed away on Oct 5, 2026, at the age of 88.
He was born on April 11, 1938, in Ragland township of Loess Hills near Mondamin. This was a place that he always loved and he will always consider it to be home and his final resting place.
Norman lived a life marked by kindness and laughter. Whether through a big smile, a helping hand, or words of encouragement, he touched the lives of countless people and made the world a little brighter for anyone fortunate enough to know him.
Norm lived a great life and was most inspired by his wife Genee Hadfield Godden who was his life companion through thick and thin, she is and was his best friend! Genee & Norm were married on Dec. 24, 1960. They have accomplished a lot in one lifetime. They both obtained college degrees and worked very hard to provide for their families. The most important thing they did was to raise two wonderful boys.
Highlights of Norms Life:
1956- Graduated Mondamin Highschool
1958-1962 Served in the United States Air Force- Rank Airman 1st Class (Texas, Kansas, Alaska)
1966- Graduated from University of Nebraska with a BS in Education
1966-1997- Career -Urban job Corp/PR for Allstate/ VP Public Affairs Washington National/ Executive Director Illinois Insurance Information Service
1997-Retirement!
Norm traveled to most of the states in the US. Norm and Genee traveled to Europe many times visiting Scotland, England, Ireland, France, Italy, Greece, Germany, Austria, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Switzerland, and Canada. They then wintered in Florida for many years.
Norm loved to play golf with all his golf friends and especially his annual Myrtle Beach Trip! He played in golf leagues in Illinois and in Florida. He also loved coaching his boys in football as well as attending all their activities & sports. He also loved to snow ski with the boys. As time went on, he enjoyed attending his grandkids’ events! He treasured time spent with family and friends. Family gatherings, holiday traditions, travel, and simple moments together were among his greatest joys. Norm & Genee loved traveling together and attending the Nebraska Football. Games. Go Big Red!
Norman is lovingly remembered by his wife Genee (Hadfield) Godden, Carmel, Ind.; son Matt Godden, (Penni) Westfield, Ind., son Nick Godden (Kim), Chicago, Ill.; Grandchildren, Lauren Sanders (Cole) Indianapolis, Ind., Ben Godden, Westfield, Ind., Hannah Godden, Chicago, Ill., and Amelia Godden, Chicago, Ill. Norman was preceded in death by parents Henry & Mildred (Withem) Godden; brother Dennis Godden, Carlton, Mo.; sisters Elena Spencer, Council Bluffs, and Marilyn Smith, Missouri Valley.
Those who knew Norman will remember him for his sense of humor, strength, and wisdom.
While we grieve this loss, we celebrate a life well lived and the lasting memories that will forever remain in our hearts.
Services were conducted on Oct. 12, 2026, at Hennessey Funeral Home.
Arrangements made by Hennessey Funeral Home, Missouri Valley.
