Norman Sanford Landess 1921 to 2010

LANDESS, RITTGERS, WHEELER

Posted By: James Mincks (email)
Date: 1/24/2010 at 21:41:10

Norman S. Landess educator for 46 years and former Principal in the Santa Clara Unified School District for 32 years passed away December 8, 2009 after a lengthy illness.
Born in Polk City, Iowa, April 21, 1921, he attained his Masters degree at Drake University in 1942 and went directly to Scott Field, IL where he taught radar technique to African, Chinese, French, and U.S. soldiers for World War II training.
In 1943 he married Doris Rittgers, his wife of 66 years at the Gospel Missionary Church in Polk City, IA. When the war ended in 1945 they returned to Iowa where he started his work in education. He had great versatility in range of subjects taught such as math, science, coaching of both boys and girls in basketball, directing school band and in administration as both Principal and Superintendant. Later in Iowa he served as Superintendant of 11 years and was especially fond of the Martensdale and the Urbandale communities. The latter was his last Iowa service as Superintendant before moving to California in 1958.
He was especially cognizant of creating a top educational environment which he held students to achieve higher scores and he held great respect for discipline. He was often observed joining students at recess in sports games. He also created higher team relationship within the many faculty members, school aides and community members with whom he associated.
Norman will be greatly missed by his wife, Doris who resides in Saratoga, CA, his sister Lois Wheeler of Ankeny, iowa, and two nieces, Janice Wiggers of Burlington, WA and Cathy Lund of Ankeny, Iowa, and Dennis Wheeler of St. Louis, MO, and old friends and cousins in the Des Moines area. A family memorial will be held later at the Rittgers Cemetery at Johnston, Iowa. Contributions will be directed to the Heart Association.
Many thanks to all friends who gave of their help and prayers during his care. Alameda Family Funeral and Cremation, Saratoga serving Mrs. Landess.

taken from the Des Moines Sunday Register, January 24, 2010, Metro section; page 9B, column 2.