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Norman E. Gross, age 84 of Lee’s Summit passed away December 13, 2016. A visitation will be held Monday, December 19 at 10:00am at Woods Chapel United Methodist Church, Lee’s Summit followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00am.
Norm was born January 26, 1932 in Saginaw, MI and was the son of Edward and Esther Gross. He was the oldest of five children: Gerald, Chet, Phyllis and Sonja who survive him. In 1952, he married Barbara Tuke and they had three children; Norman L. (Sally) Gross, Cindy Edwards and Steve Gross. Grandchildren are Chris, Leon, Sharla, Ciara, Keith and Donovan. Norm also has five great-grandchildren.
He graduated from General Motors Institute of Technology in Flint, MI in 1954. He was employed at Chrysler Missile Division working in Alabama, Turkey and Italy. He and his family returned to the U.S. in the fall of 1961 and February, 1962 he began working for The Boeing Company, Aerospace Division in Seattle, WA.. At Boeing he worked as a Safety Engineer on missile projects and Launch Systems Safety Integration in Seattle and at Cape Canaveral. He retired from Boeing in 1994.
Norman and Kate were married in September, 1991, and they celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary this past September. Kate’s children include Shane (Megan) Gretzinger, Amy (Russell) Swanson and John (Emily) Gretzinger. Grandchildren include Ramey, Kaley, William, Jessica, Sarah, Reagan, Caroline and Henry.
He was an avid golfer, skier and loved to travel. He was lifetime member of Saginaw Pioneer Masonic Lodge, a member of Woods Chapel United Methodist Church and a former member of the Ararat Drum & Bugle Corps. He is also survived by two aunts, Marie Bondy and Clara Spero, both of Michigan, nieces, nephews and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family ask for donations to Woods Chapel Church for Cancer Care Christmas Fund and/or Ronald McDonald House, his favorite missions at the church.
Jon and Dorothy (Lentner) Luethjohann says
Kate, our special thoughts and prayers are with you. Norm was my idol growing up and I loved him more than he ever knew.
Robbie & Rachel Upp says
What an amazing man with an amazing legacy. Our family is keeping you in our thoughts and prayers, Miss Kate. Love, hugs and prayers for the whole family. Cherish the special moments and remember the smiles and laughter.
Georgia Hamic says
Sorry for your loss Kate I’m so glad you picked Foxwood to let all of us spend his last 10 months with us I’m so glad I meet such wonderful couple .sending prayers that god well heal your pain love you Kate.
Glenda Currie Chiles says
Kate, I am glad you had a happy life with Norman. You deserved that. I am sure you were a blessing to him with your infectious smile and positive attitude. I pray for peace in your heart as you face this challenging time in your life.
Lester and Linda Bailey says
Lester and I always enjoyed our time with this quiet sweet man. He was a man of few words but it was apparent he knew what he was talking about. You have a lot of wonderful memories. Cherish them and let them be your healing for the future. Love you Kate and we will always be here for you.
Shelly Abbott says
I am sorry for your loss. Norman was an incredible loving man and Kate you gave him your all. We saw you at Foxwood many many many hours giving your undivided attention. Love ya Kate
Loretta Meyer says
I am so sorry Kate. You two were the perfect couple! The few times that I was fortunate enough to see him was all it took to se what a great guy he was!
Gloria and Leroy Bergschneider says
What a wonderful Norm was always had a smile on his face our condolences to you and the family you are in our prayers
Sonja Gross says
I will always miss him”, My big brother”My thoughts are with all his family and youyours too ‘ Kate!