Norman W. Suelflow Jr.

Norman W. Suelflow Jr., age 77, late of Mokena, IL, passed away peacefully at home on October 7, 2024. Proud U.S. Navy Veteran, serving from 1966-1969. He served aboard the USS Manley (DD-940) 1966-67: Around the World Cruise, receiving the Order of Magellan, an honor bestowed on distinguished individuals who have circumnavigated the Earth. Norman received the Navy Commendation Medal for Heroic Achievement. He also served aboard the USS Robert A. Owens (DD-827) 1967-69.

Affectionately known as “Stormin” Norman to many, but don’t be fooled by the name, he would give you the shirt off his back and had a special soft spot for the brown eyed girls in his family. A devoted husband and father, he dedicated his life to his family and worked selflessly to provide a wonderful life for them. He took great pride in being a great dad to his two daughters, Papa to his three grandchildren and Papa “Donut” to his great-grandson.

Norman graduated from Lockport Township High School in 1965. After serving in the Navy Norman went to Elihu T. Washburne Trade School, graduating as a Pipefitter Apprentice in 1974. He worked as a Pipefitter until retirement in 2007 and was a proud member of the Pipefitters Local 597.

Following his retirement, he found pleasure in working on various projects and mastering his woodworking. He dedicated time to volunteering with the Boy Scouts, imparting his skills in knife forging. His ideal moments were spent driving his 1986 Trans Am with his wife Beth, enjoying oldies on the radio. Norman took great joy in assisting his two daughters with home improvement tasks, whether it was mowing their lawn on a riding mower or helping to realize their creative ideas. He had a remarkable ability to bring their visions to fruition.

Beloved husband of Beth L. Suelflow (nee Doctor) of 51 years. Loving father of Kristine (Daniel) Spangler and Carrie (Roy) Wardinski. Daughter from previous marriage, Monica Robinson. Cherished grandfather of Tyler (Mia) Spangler, Kierstanne Leite, and Andrew Wardinski. Cherished great grandfather of Bentley Spangler. Caring brother of Susan (Richard) Santarelli and the late Elise (Suelflow) Salfi. Dear son of the late Norman Sr. and the late Ina Suelflow. Kind uncle and great-uncle of several nieces and nephews.

Visitation, Friday, October 11, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 19604 S. Wolf Rd. Mokena, IL 60448. Chapel Service, Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 19604 S. Wolf Rd. Mokena, IL 60448. Interment will follow at St. John’s Cemetery in Mokena, IL with military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Abraham Lincoln Memorial Squad, P.O Box 6Elwood, IL 60421, or American Legion Post #935 - Honor Guard, P O Box 171 Manhattan, IL 60442. For more information 708-479-1210 or www.vandenbergfuneralhome.com