Norman Grimmer

Norm Grimmer wasn't just an ordinary man. In the hearts of those who knew and loved him, he was extraordinary in every way. With his quick sense of humor and knack for telling stories, he was the type of fellow who could even convince someone that pigs could actually fly! It was Norm's sense of commitment to the family he loved that prodded him to be the hard working man that he was. Ever devoted and dedicated, he was all about taking care of those entrusted to his care, and under his wing. The memory of Norm Grimmer lives on in every moment spent enjoying his company, loving him, and learning by his wonderful example.

While the nation struggled through the worst year of the Great Depression, the year 1933 saw an unprecedented U.S. jobless rate of over 15 million. At the same time, great strides were being made in the culture of America as Radio City Music Hall opened, and The Ranger, the first U.S. aircraft carrier, was launched. FDR held his first “Fireside Chat” to boost the spirits of Americans while their thirst for entertainment was a welcome deviation from hard economic times. In the city of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Eugene and Jean (Hanser) Grimmer found much to divert their attention when they celebrated the birth of their son, Norman G. Grimmer on February 18, 1933.

The oldest of two sons in the Grimmer home, Norman later welcomed his younger brother, Ron, and in time, his stepsister, Dorothy Timmerman. Norm's parents worked as laborers in the area factories during World War II, but it was his grandparents who raised him and taught him a good work ethic. His grandfather, August Hanser worked at the paper mill while his grandmother, Marie worked in the garment industry. Norm attended the area schools and from a young age worked to earn his way. He had several paper routes and worked at various diners all while going to school.

With his schooling behind him, Norm landed a job working for Allied Paper until joining the U.S. Army during the Korean War in April of 1953. While in the service, he served as a cook and obtained his GED. During this time, Norm became quite taken with a young woman who stole his heart. On May 6, 1955, he married Carlyn Hull shortly after he returned home from the Army. Before his honorable discharge in March of 1955, he ranked as an Acting Motor Corporal, driving his company's commanders where they needed to go.

Once Norm returned back home to civilian life, he took up where he left off at Allied Paper, and with his bride. Throughout time they were blessed with five children, Tim, Mike, Robin, Norman Jr., and Terry. Family meant everything to Norm. His wife and children were his greatest joy, and he worked hard to provide a good life for them.

In 1956, Norm began working at the post office as a mail clerk and was soon promoted to supervisor. However, he didn't care for the job too well, and decided to make a job switch. He took a position with National Water Lift, now called Parker, and at the time of his retirement on April 25, 1995, after 38 years with the company, he held the position of general foreman. Norm was very knowledgeable in his field, and many looked up to him, but then again, he did have a way with people. He was genuine, and drew them in with his caring and attentive nature. Those he worked with often recall what a great boss he was, and everyone always loved his uncanny sense of humor.

Norm loved to fish. Over the years he took a few fishing trips to Arkansas, and as a family they camped often, usually on a lake so he could get in some fishing. The kids loved spending time with Norm fishing, but if they went with him, it was time for fishing . . . no bathroom breaks in the water were allowed! Norm not only enjoyed fishing, but loved to eat his catch along with a nice big slice of lemon meringue pie. One of Norm's most pleasurable hobbies included building model airplanes. He possessed quite a talent at it, and when his kids were young they often built model cars together.

When Norm's beloved wife Carlyn passed away in July of 2001, it was a difficult transition for him. With the love and support from family and friends, he made it through these days, but Norm continued to have a lot of love to give from his big heart. In July of 2002, he was blessed to have met his future wife, Kim, and in 2003 they were joined in marriage. He also took on Kim's children, Jennifer and Terah as his own. It was just like Norm to welcome them into his heart and home with open arms. In Kim he found a companion who walked lovingly by his side for the rest of his days.

Norm Grimmer was quite a guy, and special to all who knew him. Those who came to know him have said their lives were enriched and made better, for having known him. His family was his greatest delight, and there was nothing that made him happier than being surrounded by them. Norm had a way all his own, and will be remembered fondly in the hearts of many.

Norman Grimmer, age 80, of Kalamazoo, passed away on Friday, June 14, 2013 at Rose Arbor Hospice. Visit with his family and view his life story film on Tuesday, June 18, 2013 from 4-7 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, Vicksburg; 409 S. Main St. (649-1697) where his funeral will be held Wednesday, June 19, 2013 at 11:00 AM. Memorial donations can be made to Rose Arbor Hospice.

Norm’s family includes his wife of ten years, Kim; his children: Terry (Marcia) Grimmer, Norm Jr., Robin (Shawn) O’Neil, Mike (Suzanne) Grimmer, Tim Grimmer, Jennifer (Jamie) Goodrich, Terah (Jonathan) Farness; grandchildren: Brian Grimmer, Derek Grimmer, Mindy Camp, Lisa Bell, David Brock, Randy Brock, Shawn Foerst, Natasha Foerst, Ryan O'Neil, Brittney O'Neil, Jordon O'Neil, Cullen O'Neil, Mitchell Grimmer, Leise Grimmer, Alison Grimmer, Suzanne Grimmer, Keller Grimmer, Elizabeth Goodrich, Jason Goodrich, Joeseph Goodrich, Miriam Farness, Anna Farness and Clarissa Farness; and numerous great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Carlyn, and by his brother, Ron. Please visit Norm’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can share a memory, photo, and sign his memory book online before coming to funeral home.