Gary Leon Norenberg (Bugs)

Gary Leon Norenberg (Bugs)

McHenry, Miss.

Gary Leon Norenberg (Bugs), 79, of McHenry, Mississippi, passed away on October 25, 2022 at his home in McHenry, Mississippi.

Gary was born July 11, 1943, in Keota, Iowa, to Isaac and Grace Norenberg. He graduated from Keota Community High School in May 1961. Gary enlisted in the United States Air Force in February 1962. He attended Basic Military Training and Technical School at Lackland AFB and Sheppard AFB, TX, respectively. In Fall 1962, Gary was assigned to his first permanent duty station, Barksdale AFB, LA. His next duty station took him out of the country to Hahn AB, Germany. Although he was a very long way from home, in a strange country and embarking on his career, Gary’s love for one, Miss Judith A. Mayer (Judy), could not be derailed! As “love” would have it, Gary came home on leave and married Judy on June 26, 1965! Soon afterwards, Judy joined Gary in Germany. Gary and Judy had two children, Gina (1966) and Lance (1970). Gary’s military career provided his family with the unique opportunity to see and experience the world! Notably, his work ethic was impeccable. Hard work never dissuaded him and ultimately provided the foundation for his children to embrace throughout their lives’ journey. Gary served in the U.S. Air Force for 28 honorable years and retired in Febuary 1990.

When Gary wasn’t working, or chasing after the kids and their activities, or tending to his “honey-do” lists, he loved to hunt, fish and garden!

Gary is survived by his daughter, Gina M. Burnham and partner James Sietsema; son, Lance R. Norenberg and wife Ursula; sister, Veronica (Peachie) and husband Roger Shifflett; brothers, Donald (Dick), Lowell (Gus), Jay and George; grandsons, Michael A. Norenberg and partner Sarah M. McCain, Isaac H. Norenberg; granddaughters, Brandi N. Burnham and fiancé Glen Kruse, Paige C. Holz-Norenberg; great-grandsons, Camden M. Rhodd, Hendrix A. and Milan A. Norenberg, James B. Senkbile; and great-granddaughters, Dakota M. Rhodd, Alayna M. Kruse. Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Judith Ann (Mayer) Norenberg; parents, Isaac Grove and Grace Anna Catherine (Biewen) Norenberg; sisters, Pauline Cave, Beverly Earll, Lois Bennett; brothers, Lou Edward, Stanley Norenberg; and great-grandson, Lennox A. Norenberg.

A memorial service will be held 11:00 am on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at the United Church of Faith in Keota, with Pastor Cathy Nutting officiating. Military rites will be provided by Keota V.F.W. Post #4716.

Powell Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Keota is caring for Gary and his family. Tributes may be made at www.powellfuneralhomes.com.