Norman Earl Hahn

Norman Earl Hahn, one of the last “white hat cowboys” did not die with his boots on, but passed quietly in his own bed on March 4, 2020.  Elwanda O’keefe Hahn, his spouse of almost 70 years, was by his side.  Norman died where he lived for most of his life, in Jayton, Texas.  He was 88.
Norman is survived by his wife Elwanda of Jayton, & their four daughters: Holly Hahn Sorrells, Dana Hahn Brinkman, Janine Hahn Spiller (Russ), & Erin Hahn Edwards (Ricky). Grandchildren are Michael (Brenna) Muscatell, Megan Muscatell Butler (Austin), Kelsey Brinkman Smith (Derek); Alyssa Spiller Sajovich (David) & Steven Kent Spiller; and Allison Ballard Kierman (Alan), Tony Harvey, & Ashley Harvey.  His  great-grandchildren continue to grow in number.  Two nephews and two nieces join the family in celebrating Norman’s life.
Norman is preceded in death by his parents, Earl Clinton Hahn & Eva Hale Hahn of Girard, TX to whom he was born on September 5, 1931 in Swenson, TX.  He is also preceded in death by his older sister, Jewel Dean Hahn Bruce of Odessa/San Antonio, TX & by one nephew. 
The son of a farming family, Norman learned early to work hard, live right, & trust God. After he & Elwanda married in 1950, he served in the US Coast Guard. Under the GI Bill, he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Math (awarded with honors) from Texas Tech  University, going  to school while working & raising a family.  Perhaps best known as a cattleman and rancher, he was also a farmer, beloved teacher, & county judge.  He did not believe in retiring, but thought a man should work until he died—& he did. 
He was smart, kind, grateful for his blessings. Norman said that he was “just an old cowboy, a country boy,” but others describe an humble, honest man, a loyal friend, strong advocate, one who took time to lend aid, & a devoted family man who made an art of telling stories around the table.
Summer vacations meant fishing, usually in the rivers & lakes of the Colorado mountains.  Every day was “a good day,” but none were better than those on the ranch. He saw God’s Hand in the red bluffs of the canyons & in the wildflowers on the range.

“Gunsmoke” was his favorite television show; he wanted that noted. Billy Graham was “the best preacher,” and his model for living.
Norman enjoyed Bible study & worship at First Baptist Church, Jayton, the location of his service on Monday, March 9 at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Girard.  
Norman served well his country, community, family, and God.  He will be remembered.