Gary Leon Norenberg (Bugs), 79

Gary Leon Norenberg

1943 - 2023

Gary Leon Norenberg (Bugs), 79, of McHenry, MS, 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. 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 26 Jun 1965! Soon afterwards, Judy joined Gary in Germany. Gary and Judy had 2 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 life’s journey. Gary served in the US Air Force for 28 honorable years and retired in Feb 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; great-granddaughters Dakota M. Rhodd, Alayna M. Kruse.  Gary is 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, and Stanley Norenberg, great-grandson: Lennox A. Norenberg.

A memorial service was held 11:00 am on Saturday, April 15, 2023, at the United Church of Faith in Keota, with Pastor Cathy Nutting officiating.  Military rites were 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.