Norman Joseph Herzog was born on September 9, 1935 in St. Paul, Minnesota to Henry and Anna Herzog. He grew up in South St. Paul, with his brother Larry. After his graduation from South St. Paul High School, he attended Hamline University, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in music.
After college graduation, he took his first music education position in Westbrook, a small town in southwestern Minnesota. After teaching there for a few years, he accepted a position as the band director at Orono High School. It was there where he met Mary Bruzek, who was the school librarian. In 1962, Norm took a new position as the band director in Roseville, Minnesota. They were married on June 13th, 1964. After the wedding, they embarked on a month-long honeymoon in Europe.
On May 11th, 1965, Mary gave birth to their first child, Theresa Marie. They moved from their apartment in Brooklyn Center to a house in Fridley. On July 25th, 1969, their second child, Jeffrey Michael, was born. The family enjoyed a very close relationship, taking annual summer vacations to Northern Minnesota and many other places.
Norm taught in the Roseville School District for almost 3 decades, while also completing his Masters Degree at the University of Minnesota. During this time, and after retirement, Norm enjoyed playing with multiple musical groups, spanning many different musical styles. These groups included the Dick Roberts Orchestra, the Northeast Orchestra, the Classic Big Band, the Minneapolis Brass Ensemble, and many others. Norm joined St. Philips Lutheran Church in 1993, where he was a mainstay at the piano, organ, trumpet, and even had a stint on the church council.
In later life, Norm was a devoted Grandpa to his five granddaughters. He enjoyed attending their activities, teaching them music, playing games, and often talking on the phone. He also loved the time he spent with them on our annual family trip up to the North Shore or Brainerd Lakes.
Norm is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Mary; his daughter Theresa and son-in-law Mike Tostengard; his son Jeff Herzog and daughter-in-law Suzie; and granddaughters Mara Tostengard, Abby Herzog, Anna Tostengard, Katie Herzog, and Sophie Herzog.
Visitation
Miller Funeral Home
6210 Hwy. 65 NE
Fridley, MN 55432
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Memorial Service
St. Philip's Lutheran Church
6180 Highway 65 Northeast
Fridley, MN 55432
Thursday, May 24, 2012
11:00 AM
Cemetery
Roselawn Cemetery
803 West Larpenteur Avenue
Roseville, MN 55113
Thursday, May 24, 2012