Tryna Kay Norberg passed away peacefully at the age of 76 on Feb. 7, 2024, in Olympia, Washington, surrounded by family. She was kind, sweet and loving to the very end, as she was in life.
Tryna was born March 8, 1947, in Chehalis, Washington, to parents Albert Norberg and Edythe Norberg (Literal). She joined her brother, Randy Norberg. She attended a small one-room schoolhouse near her home on Jackson Highway, excelling at studies before eventually attending W.F. West High School in Chehalis, where she made many friends. Graduating in 1965, she went on to Central Washington College (University) in Ellensburg, Washington, pursuing a degree in education and becoming a teacher for most of her life.
An inspiring educator, Tryna was always more than just a teacher. She consistently took it upon herself to become an advocate for young people, often stepping into a motherly role that provided support, understanding and love to those who lacked solid parental figures at home. Her compassion and belief in the potential of every individual were unwavering, as she touched the lives of countless students across many institutions, instilling in them the confidence and determination to succeed. She was a beacon of light for these students, so much so, both of her children have strong memories of young adults coming up to their mother in parking lots and grocery stores to thank and hug her for believing in them years ago and helping them succeed in higher pursuits of education and in life itself.
She started her teaching career at Maple Lane, a low-security school for juvenile delinquents, where she taught home economics while offering invaluable support to students in need. Her mantra, "There are no bad children, just bad situations," exemplified her belief in the power of empathy and understanding to transform lives.
In 1990, she moved to Centralia High School as a home health teacher, immediately recognizing the need to support female students who became pregnant. Through her tireless efforts of advocacy and grant writing, she spearheaded the creation of the Early Childhood Development Center, providing daycare for student-mothers to continue their education while also offering valuable childcare experience to other students. Tryna's impact was profound, earning her the admiration and respect of her students, colleagues and the community. She finished her career at Lower Columbia College and then retired shortly after 2000.
Throughout her life, Tryna's sense of adventure never waned. She embarked on numerous expeditions, including sailing from Hawaii to Tahiti twice and traversing the Camino de Santiago trail in Spain. Always eager to explore new destinations, she traveled extensively with friends and family, spreading joy and laughter wherever she went.
Tryna is survived by her children, Josh Hizon and Tara Hizon-Carter; son-in-law, Randy Carter; as well as her grandchildren, Oloan Carter and Edie Carter. She is also survived by her brother, Randy Norberg, and his wife, Judy Norberg, along with many lifelong friends and extended family members.
She will be dearly missed.
A celebration of life service in honor of Tryna will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. June 2, 2024, at Huber’s Gasthaus, located at 2312 Friendly Grove Road NE, Olympia.
