Norman Burgmeier

Norman Michael Burgmeier, aged 90, passed peacefully at home on August 29th surrounded by his beloved wife Sarah; his children Kathy (Steve Schmaus), Michael, John, and Barbara; and many of his dear grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Also at his side were his daughter-in-laws Denise Burgmeier and Lea Casper, and son-in-law Andy Mackie. Norm was always happiest when his family was together.

Norm was a devoted and loving grandfather to Ryan (Angela), Brandon, Jessica, Keegan, Kiersten, Zach, Zane, Jillian, Monica, Cody and Becca. His great-grandchildren are Natalie, Scarlet, Oaklin, Colter and Nina. They filled his heart with immeasurable joy.

Norm is survived by his dear brother Bill Burgmeier and Bill’s wife Jean. He was preceded in death by his sisters Rosemary Hemmelgarn and Carol Parr.

Born on July 6, 1935 to Norman Michael and Florence Burgmeier, Norm and Sarah had lifelong ties to Dayton. They both attended Corpus Christi School, Chaminade and Julienne High Schools, and the University of Dayton. Norm proudly managed the Dayton-area Elder Beerman stores for 20 years. He later retired from Osterfeld Champion Service in 2000.

Norm caught Sarah’s eye when he served as an angel for her First Communion at Corpus Christi Church. After a long courtship, they married in 1958 and raised their family in the Five Oaks neighborhood. Their beloved second daughter Becky passed away in 1964 and always remained in their hearts.

Family and faith were Norm’s priorities. He and Sarah gave their children a lifetime of happy memories. They fondly remember their many vacations to Florida and Bear Lake in Michigan where Norm taught the kids to fish and explore nature. He especially enjoyed cross-country trips to Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. We remember Norm’s searches for moose, bear and elk, and on one special trip, Sarah shared Norm’s excitement when a herd of buffalo crossed the road and swam across the Yellowstone River. Norm always derived great enjoyment from watching wildlife and loved feeding the birds and critters in his backyard.

Norm brought joy to everything he did with his genuine enthusiasm and wry sense of humor.

The kids remember that Norm was very proud of his outdoor Christmas displays, always a standout in the neighborhood. There were many happy memories of piling in the car and checking out neighbors’ lights.

Norm and Sarah had a close-knit circle of friends who filled their lives with laughter and companionship. The antics of “the Lost Memory Nursing Home” are legendary. Their dear friends, Barb and Harry Wilson, Mary Lou and Leonard Diaspro, Joe and Evelyn Nickoson, Alice and Joe Most, and Quita and Bill Slocum will hold a special place in the Burgmeier kids’ hearts.

Even to the end, Norm’s caregivers described him as one-of-a-kind, always joking and bringing a smile to their faces. To everyone’s joy, Norm retained his sweet tooth, something that provided many laughs over the years. Norm is deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Dayton, who provided great comfort to his family in his final days.