Norman E. Rodenberg | Obituary

Norman E. Rodenberg

Norman E. Rodenberg

Norman Edwin Rodenberg, 89, of Springfield, died Oct. 13, 2016, at Regency Nursing Care, Springfield.

He was born July 16, 1927, near Maeystown, the son of Henry and Meta Rodenberg (nee Schrader).

Norm served in the U.S. Navy following his high school graduation in 1945. After receiving his Bachelor of Music from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, he began his career in the teaching profession as a music teacher.

He continued in the educational field, earning his master’s degree in administration from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, serving as a principal, superintendent and business manager in several school districts.

In 1972 he began his employment with the Illinois Department of Mental Health in Springfield, serving in various roles until his retirement.

Continuing with his love of music through the years, he served as choir director in multiple churches and performed as vocalist for scores of sacred services, sharing his special talent with many.

Norm was a member of St. Paul’s Lodge 500 AF & AM Springfield Consistory and Ansar Shriners. He served on the Ansar’s Divan as chief of staff in 2002 and 2003 and as Ansar’s administrator in 2004.

Norm possessed an incredible work ethic and was an accomplished handyman who built fences and decks for family and friends and never met a task he couldn’t complete.

Surviving are his second wife, Linda Rodenberg (nee Stephens), whom he married on July 11, 1987; one daughter, Julie (Mark) Erickson of Springfield; two sons, David (Jama) Rodenberg of Columbia and Jeff (Clare) Rodenberg of Waterloo; one stepson, Rob Stephens of Springfield; seven grandchildren; one sister, Verna Mehrtens (nee Rodenberg) of O’Fallon; two nieces; one nephew; and many cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and the mother of his children, Helen (Nicholson) Rodenberg.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Regency Nursing Care for Norm’s splendid care during his stay there.

Ellinger-Kunz & Park Funeral Home, Springfield, handled the arrangements.
Visitation and funeral services were Oct. 17, at First Congregational United Church of Christ, Springfield, the Reverend Dan Dexter officiating.

Interment followed at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League of Springfield or First Congregational United Church of Christ.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

Republic-Times

The Republic-Times has been Monroe County's hometown newspaper since 1890. Serving Columbia, Waterloo, Valmeyer, Hecker and every town in between, we strive to provide the news that matters most to you in the timeliest manner possible. For more information on subscribing to the Republic-Times, call 939-3814 or visit the "Subscribe" page on this website.
HTC web
MonroeCountyElectric300X15012_19