Norman R. McCrea, 89 of rural Monroe passed away on February 12th at Pella Regional Hospital. Norman was the son of Francis and Lorena (Alley) McCrea. He was born on August 5, 1935, in Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from Des Moines Technical High School. Norm served two years in the U.S. Navy and was a repairman for Goodwin Services in Des Moines. He married Phyllis Jolly in 1963. Norman could repair anything although he never wanted credit for it and was nicknamed "Dr. Dolittle" by family members for his numerous animal friends he assisted during his life.

Norman is survived by his sister, Diane Brown of North Port, Florida and his five children: Robert (Helen) Oxberger of Burke, Virginia, Gayle Ryan of Ames, Joel (Julie) McCrea of Pleasant Hill, Paul of Dalzall, South Carolina and Craig of Lu Verne. Norm had eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Private family service will be held at a later date. Condolences may be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com