Norma Jean Gaunt celebrated her 100th birthday on Nov. 5, 2024.

On Wednesday, Nov. 5, 1924, Norma Jean Gaunt was born on the family farm south of Great Bend to Dovie and Harry Gaunt. She was the third of seven children.

A child of the Roaring Twenties and Prohibition era came and went smoothly enough, crashing into the Dirty Thirties and the Great Depression. The ’30s were challenging. Norma Jean remembers those days where everyone in the family had their duties. Times were hard then. Life on the family farm was busy, but still not as bad as times were elsewhere.

At the end of the European War during World War II in 1945, Norma Jean married Frederick Robert (Bob) Kopke of Great Bend. Bob developed his career in banking. Moving to Hutchinson in 1953, Bob went to work for the Hutchinson National Bank. He retired from there as an installment Loan Officer. He passed away in 2013.

Bob and Norma Jean had two children, Pam Kopke Tucker and Frederick Robert Kopke II, both of Great Bend.

What is it like to be 100 years old? After some thought Norma responds with, “It isn’t for everyone. You must have your health and your eyesight. I think the eyesight being the most important.” 

Norma Jean is very strong in mind, sharp as a tack and body, still walking with only a cane. For 100 years of age that is very awesome.