Norm Maleng was an icon to our community and a symbol of justice and integrity. His passing is an immeasurable loss to our county, and he will be missed greatly. 

He was a man of integrity in all his dealings. He was a prayerful man who believed in all this county could be. His faith guided him always and was a source of strength for him in the decisions he had to make on the Ridgway case and many others. 

He did many things behind the scenes to help those who had suffered tragic loses. He often visited the homes of those who had tragically lost children to give them comfort, as he had lost his own beloved daughter Karen and knew the pain and how to deal with it. He never forgot and was proud of his roots. He made it a practice in speeches to mention that he was from Acme, Washington . 

He made the difficult job of prosecutor look easy. He developed a wonderfully professional team of attorneys to serve in his office. I know they will continue on in his memory to serve the people of this county with great integrity and skill. 

I had the pleasure of serving with Norm on many committees such as the Criminal Justice Task Force, panels for at-risk youth and prevention of domestic violence, and many others. 

Today I am sure he is in heaven with his daughter and knows the loss we all feel. His memory, example, and love will live on.