Norman Ray Falkenberg

Norman Ray Falkenberg, cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on December 21, 2024, at the age of 82, in his hometown of Toledo, Ohio. Born on September 16, 1942, Norman lived a life characterized by love and an appreciation for the simple joys that life has to offer.

Norm was the son of Norman Edward and Sarah Eudora (née Daniels) Falkenberg. He is survived by his beloved wife Sheila (née Griffin) Falkenberg, his brother Charles (Joan) Falkenberg, and his children Todd (Susan) Falkenberg and Sarah (Tom) Carr. Norm was also a proud stepfather to John (Aranne Moody) Asendorf and Mary (Frank) Branch, and he took immense joy in the roles of grandfather and great-grandfather. His grandchildren Courtney (David) Bushea; Emma Falkenberg; Bobby and Fynn Asendorf; Derrick (Kimmy), Michael, and Corey (Carla) Carr; along with his two great-grandchildren, David and Noah Bushea, all brought joy to his life.

Unafraid of a day’s work from an early age as a paperboy, he learned his way from the print shop of Haughton Elevator into the then-new profession of computer programming. He went on to take his talents to General Motors and the State of California. He made quick friends with colleagues who he remained in contact with throughout his life.

He was an ardent fan of Ohio State Football and a follower of NASCAR. He shared his love for boating and lake activities with his family and friends in the Irish Hills of southern Michigan. He could regularly be seen in the audience at live hot jazz and dixieland performances in Toledo and throughout the country. Traveling was a cherished activity for Norm and Sheila. While they enjoyed their trips throughout the country and the world, their favorite trips were to see their grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s activities where they would beam with pride. A lifelong member of St. John's Lutheran Church, his faith led him to serve as an officer of its Board.

Norm is preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Karen Erla Falkenberg (née Fisher). As we remember Norm, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with love for family and a commitment to his work and community.

The family will hold visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. with a service at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, December 27th, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, Southwest Chapel, 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, OH 43614. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charitable organization of your choice.

Norm will be profoundly missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. May he rest in peace.