Emma Freida Hall, age 95, of Shell Lake, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.

Born in Evergreen Township on September 1, 1929, to George and Freida (Schaller) Norton, Emma’s life was rooted in hard work, faith, and family. She married the love of her life, Jerry Hall, on September 12, 1948, and together they built a legacy of love, laughter, and tradition. The kind of life that comes from both joy and long hours spent working side by side.

Though there was always another chore to finish she made time for the small, sacred things: baking, gardening, sharing a cup of tea–or bowl of ice cream– with anyone who stopped by. She had the kind of warmth that made her “Emma” to many but “Grandma” to most.

Emma devoted countless hours in service to the church as a Sunday School teacher, Confirmation leader, and choir member. While she taught with the patience of a saint if you ever experienced her look of disapproval after not having your Luther’s Small Catechism memorized you knew true fear. She was an opportunistic teacher: as likely to share wisdom while snapping green beans as from a church pew.

Since raising 5 children, and working the farm didn't keep her busy enough. On the slim chance one might have mistaken her for unmotivated Emma ran a clothing store in Shell Lake with her sister Lena.

Her greatest joy came from her family, and she was the heart of countless Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, summer cookouts, beach parties, and long kitchen conversations. Emma was a steady presence—quick to pray, quick to serve, and always ready with a hug.

She is survived by her son, Robert Hall of Shell Lake; daughters Barbara (Gerry) Jensen, Susan (Gary) Dodd, and Roxanne Hall, all of Shell Lake; thirteen grandchildren; thirty-eight great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; daughter, Tammie Schroeder; daughter-in-law, Becky Hall; great-grandson, Fane Hershey; and her siblings: Lena Clark, Ernest Norton, George Norton, Emil Norton, Shirley Brown, Edna Fricke, and Ray Norton.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Faith Lutheran Church in Spooner, with Rev. Brent Berkesch officiating. Pallbearers are her thirteen grandchildren. A lunch will immediately follow the service. Burial will follow at Shell Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 to 11:00 AM prior to the service.

Last Update: Jun 24, 2025 7:29 am CDT