Robert S. Norwich

Robert Sylvester Norwich 89, January 5, 1929 – June 4, 2018
Decorated Korean War Veteran. Preceded in death first by Father Sylvester Paul and Mother Estelle Cecelia Norwich; Devoted Wife Delores (52 Yrs.) Sister Barbara (Laiter) and 2nd Son Robert (Linda).
He leaves behind two Sons: Dean (Susan), and Paul. Three Daughters: Pamela (Mark), Donna (James), Laura (Michael). Seven Grandchildren: Colin (Amber), Matthew, Amy, Erik, Drew, Paige; Meghan (Bryan). Three Great Grandchildren: Nate, Madelyn; Emma and one Sister Geraldine (Richard). Loving Uncle for numerous nieces and nephews from both sides of the family tree (the children of Abraham, Greski, Morris, Laiter, and Link), who lovingly and affectionately called him “Uncle Bob.”
Mr. Norwich was a Lindbloom H.S. ’48 Graduate, where he excelled in gymnastics and was an IHSA finalist in State Competition, specializing in the High Bar exercise. He attended the University of Illinois-Navy pier campus and was drafted out of college and into the Army during the Korean War. He was a CPL in the Artillery Division; endured bone-chilling temperatures of minus -50 below ( wind chill ) and fought in 3 of the wars major campaigns; including the Battle for Pusan Perimeter n/k/a/: Busan.
Robert was a lifetime (58+ yrs.) member of the American Legion where he was heavily active for the legendary Legion Post #175 through the 60’s-70’s and 80’s. He steadily moved-up through the ranks with numerous Installations and meritorious citations for charity and fund raising. His greatest joy was coordinating major party events especially for sons and daughters of the Legion members. His annual Christmas shows broke attendance records year after year. Robert was also a life-long member of the “Forty and Eight” Society where he was active through the early 90’s.
Robert was also a member of the Chicago Painters and Decorators Union Local #273. He was nicknamed the “Old War Horse” by his colleagues. Prior to joining the Union Robert was a self-employed one man wrecking crew, assisted often by his three sons and most often working with his youngest son Paul. Robert had great determination, drive and an unrivalled work ethic. These traits were part of his character which he imparted to all of his children.
Robert was an athletic water skier, conscientious helmsman, avid golfer, talented dancer, accordion player and an outstanding bowler. He loved life and life loved him back and was blessed far beyond his humble Great-Depression era struggles.
Robert was a special guy who asked little and selflessly gave of himself. He dedicated his life towards the enrichment of his family and desperately tried to help and please all of them, regardless of any circumstance, predicament, task, or issue, his undying love and support was always swift and reliable.

Robert was an alpha-male who owned a sunny personality combined with a sense of purpose as to become friends with anyone he met… not flirtatious, but real charm and a sticky confidence which attracted others to him like a magnetic hero of sorts. He was a proud and highly dignified man, hard-wired towards caring for others, considerate, polite and the most honest man you could ever know.
We salute you Robert! You may not have been born into Royalty, but you surely possessed a quality of vitality in life, outwardly noticeable by others, which casts you into a Regal light which shall never dim in our hearts.