B: 2.17.1927, Chicago IL
Married Phyllis: 6.27.1959
They moved to LA: 10.16.2003
Hospitalized post-stroke, the night of 9.27.2007.
D: 10.27.2007 after valiant efforts at Tarzana-Encino Hospital.
Cremation via The Omega Society; no memorial is planned.

Norbert was a gentleman of impeccable character, fidelity, kind love, and integrity. Adhering to the tenets of his Roman Catholic faith, he believed that one’s purpose here on Earth was “to get yourself to Heaven.” It seems that Divinity has always rewarded him. He was universally liked and respected. With keen observation informing his unassuming, efficient wit, he charmed new friends wherever he went. He was always the witty gentleman in his social circle, while endeavoring to eliminate the presence of “swear words” and crude content in his vicinity. Eg., for over 20 years, a group took an annual fishing vacation to wild realms of Canada accessible only via small seaplanes, sometimes as far north as the Arctic Circle. Though some of the guys might use marijuana or vulgarity, or be disrespectful to Nature or their Native American guides, Norbert’s voice of conscience always kept situations in-control without dishonoring his traveling companions! Educated at Carl Schurz Public High School and 2 years of night classes at Northwestern University, he worked tirelessly to provide for his family – his widowed mother Clara, wife Phyllis and only child Michael. He provided exceptional education for Michael, including St. Constance Catholic Grammar School, the all-boys Loyola Academy Jesuit College Preparatory High School, and Northwestern University. While working 40 years for Zenith Radio & Television Corporation until retirement, he worked a side job and cared for the 2-flat home he purchased from Clara 2 years before she peacefully passed on during sleep. Norbert maintained and improved that home while renting the second floor to well-cared-for tenants, until Michael (who moved to Hollywood in March 1998) coordinated the final move to Los Angeles.

Phyllis has always been the radiant center of love in her family. An only child born 8.18.1932, she contracted polio at 11 months of age. Her Depression-era family took turns massaging her legs – the only remedy then imagined. Somehow she sang, danced and “ran track” though a keen observer might notice her limp – left leg being 1” shorter, its foot lacking any muscle control. A leader among her peers despite frequent bully-beatings en route to school, she has always been a fearless enthusiast and optimist, her huge brown eyes loving all she sees – especially polite gentleman Norbert, whom she met via the “Key Club” group she co-founded. At their weekly socials in Skokie, IL’s St. Peter’s Catholic Church basement, Norbert & Phyllis shared many witty, polite conversations. But he was a “confirmed bachelor,” and never asked her out. Until she vanished mid-evening one week, and Norbert upon inquiring of her whereabouts, was informed that her date had picked her up. Clever Phyllis. The following week, Norbert asked her out. Their courtship was characterized by LONG conversations in Norbert’s car upon driving Phyllis back to her parents’ home, lasting till dawn, covering all manner of serious topics. Upon awareness of the brightening sky, one would always remark, “All I said was...!!” and they’d break out in hearty laughter. In fact, love and laughter were always the principal commodities traded between Norbert & Phyllis. Sometimes they’d express concern to the upstairs tenant, “I hope we’re not too loud” – the response being, “No, I love hearing you laugh!”

Norbert’s commitment to Phyllis was not without challenges. When Michael was 4 years old, Phyllis experienced her last of multiple miscarriages. At full term, planned daughter Lori did not survive while Phyllis did, thanks to her mother Lorraine’s alert timing, but hepatitis was contracted from blood transfusions. While she was bedridden for a year, Michael “grew up fast” and coordinated the household. Phyllis learned to walk again and loved her dedicated role as loving housewife and nurturing mother. As her strength increased, so did Michael’s popularity as a child actor. Phyllis & Michael ventured on CTA el trains & buses from Northwest Side Jefferson Park to downtown Chicago for a successful two years of professional acting in TV commercials & industrial films, until cystic acne set in and Michael transitioned to working behind the camera. Norbert’s support for his family was unwavering, as hardworking financial provider and loving husband & father.

Michael moved from Chicago IL to Hollywood CA in March 1998. After a few years, Phyllis began to experience Post-Polio Syndrome <en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post..._syndrome> requiring her to use a walker or wheelchair for mobility. In 2003 Michael took a break from developing his career, to care for the health and welfare of his family. He traveled home to Chicago, sold the home which had been built by Clara on a vacant lot in 1952, and moved parents and possessions to Los Angeles. A short break was intended, but their care became more time-consuming than anticipated. The surprising departure of Norbert at age 80 as life partner and caretaker of Phyllis, age 75, brings new challenges... But every challenge is an opportunity.

Stay tuned... “Love is the Answer, no matter the Question.”