Norman Ralph Klemz

Oct 23, 1929 - Sep 28, 2017

SOUTH BEND - On November 10, 1929, Reine and Althea Klemz brought their son, Norman, to the waters of Holy Baptism, where his life was forever joined to the love of Christ.

Norman married the love of his life, Norma Jean Schlundt on July 1, 1950. His passionate love was matched only by his untiring devotion as her caregiver in later years. He carried a lump-in-the-throat love for his granddaughters, Andrea (Miss Brookes), Jaime (Jimmie), Amanda (Peanut) and “that beautiful little girl,” his great granddaughter, Emmy. Norman later delighted in becoming “grandpa” to Micah, Abel and Tiffany.

Norman and Norma's hearts were broken with the death of their son, “our Ken” (1970). But their wounded hearts opened a deeper way to love life and their children, Steve and Tracy, who counted it a great gift to be loved by him and to know the pride he had for them.

Norman will be remembered for his wit, camaraderie with golf buddies, perseverance (read: stubbornness), strong work ethic, love of Florida weather, being a polka dancer and a rigid Republican. He celebrated friendships and the joy of hospitality shared and received. Joys and sorrows were shared with his sister, Karen, and his in-laws: fond memories with Nancy and Dale; and consolation shared with Donna (especially after Notre Dame losses).

Most important, Norman was a man of strong faith. He was a Lutheran, faithful in worship, serving in leadership positions in Our Redeemer and Messiah Lutheran. Through his faith, he lived in grace. This is why you always saw him smiling as he walked through life with his beloved Norma.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., October 16, at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 17195 Cleveland Rd., South Bend. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated for the scholarship fund:

“Let Me Shine Christian Preschool” in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Published in South Bend Tribune on Oct. 8, 2017

Source: FindAGrave.com

06/18/2025 EJS

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/184093518/norman_ralph-klemz