My fondest image of Norm is carrying a tray with 9 little jar tops of food for 9 hungry little Westies from two litters. The puppies gathered around his feet, and he was like "Father Goose" with his tray, gently admonishing them to be patient. Patient and nurturing is what Norm was, and he gave every one of those puppies a good beginning. One of them became our own little Atticus (Atty) who so adored Norm that whenever I said "Norm!" he would bounce with excitement and race to the car--even though he knew he'd be groomed when he got there. Norm and Atty had a special relationship for these past 14 years, and so did we with Norm for the past 22. He was one of kindest and most humble people I have ever known--a  "good man through and through," which is what I told him last time I saw him.  His loss has hit me hard, and my prayers are with you, Karen, and the family. He is with God now, and  I imagine as he entered that Heavenly kingdom, Atty raced to greet him with the same joy he (and I) always felt in Norm's presence. I miss them both. I was blessed and my life enriched by knowing Norm, and for that I'll be forever grateful.

How very sorry I was to hear of Norm's passing.  I taught with Norm for many of those years when he was at RCTC.  He always wore a smile and a gentle expression, and never was anything but gentile and positive in his conversation.  His illness creates a gap in the science department and, indeed, throughout the entire RCTC community.  Rest in peace, Norm.  Cherish the memories, family members.

Chris and family, I am so sorry for your loss.  

I met Norm while attending RCTC, where he encouraged my interest in biology and taught me the value of hard work.  He challenged me to be better than my best and to be proud of my abilities.  Inside and outside of the classroom, he was a friend and role model; he inspired me to follow my curiosity and to never stop searching for answers.  Norm was a spectacular professor, a generous mentor, a loving father, and the finest crepe-maker anywhere.

Karen and Family,

I first met Norm as a student at RCC in 1982, and took several biology classes from him over 2 years. The pinnacle of adventures with Norm was when he took the entire class to the Milwaukee Zoo on an annual zoology trip.

He was a devoted educator, light-hearted, fun-loving, helpful and always gentle. I enjoyed coming back periodically to visit with him while I continued college. Eventually, he brought his Scotties to see me after I became a veterinarian. Norm was a great mentor and friend to me, as I'm sure he was inspirational to countless other students. Hopefully all of us life-loving, nature addicts can continue in Norm's footsteps and honor him.

Brad Treder

God's peace to you Karen and your family...close and extended,

I know the pain you all must be feeling. You will be in my prayers for the coming year. Your loss is a great one indeed...God's GRACE will be yours during this difficult time.

It is with great sincerity & respect that I say, "All I can do is Smile."
I am so happy Norm is with God (of that I have no Doubt!)  I sit here thinking back to all of those labs I had with "Mr. Reopelle". . . the shark & cat labs especially.  We would be trying to find some muscle or organ and we would raise our hands for help.  With JOY, actually joy-filled steps, he would come to our station, push & pull a few things apart, and then say, "See! There it was hiding behind the ... "  Then he would always take a few more moments to explain some of the structures surrounding what 'we' had found.

He had a Natural, God given Gift for Teaching. . . an ability that no college or university could ever teach.  Later, when I joined RCC as his colleague, I still could not get past calling him "Mr. Reopelle". . .and he continued to call me "Lizzy," just as he had when I was his student.  I am still smiling thru the tears.

It was an Honor to have known him.

"Lizzy" Fleck & my pack of mixed pooches

Karen and family,

Norm was an exceptional man and was always so upbeat and enjoyable to chat with.   Our family will keep you in our thoughts and prayers during these challenging times.  Thanks to Norm for taking care of Bailey.  

Joe and Marcie Becker

I am SOOO SORRY to hear about the loss of Norm! He was an exceptional teacher, person and family man! Earths loss is heavens gain! God bless the entire Reopelle family!

My connection to Norm goes back to my days as Scoutmaster for the troop at Ben Franklin.  There was a mass of 5th graders that helped to form Boy Scout Troop 80 and Norm's son, Chris, was one of those young men.  Norm stepped up to the plate as a Troop Committee Member.  I truly enjoyed visiting with Norm at the house on 15th St SE.  There always seemed to be dogs in the basement.   Karen and Chris my condolences.  Michael Pagelkopf

Karen, you and your family will be in my continued thoughts and prayers.  Norm was a very special man to so many.  His smile infectious and his kindness unmatched.  My life was truly touched by him and he will be greatly missed.  Prayers.

Sending sincerest love and sympathy to Karen, Chris and family. 

Norm's ready smile, his infectious chuckle, his love and respect for all he met will live forever in the memories of all who knew him.  Proud to be one of those.

Karen, you never gave up, always remained steadfast and loving through even dark days. You were his treasure.

Love

Brenda

Norm was a wonderful neighbor and friend. We admired and respected him.

My thoughts and prayers for the Reopelle family in this time of loss.  Norm was a great instructor and a true Christian with a big heart.

We enjoyed working with him at RCTC.  He always had a smile and spoke with pleasant words.  he was very comforting and we missed him when he retired.

May he rest in peace with our Savior.

With deep sympathy,

Glen Saponari, RCTC Advising

Dear Chris and Family:

We are sorry for the loss of your Dad.  I know to have such a wonderful son as you, he had to have been a wonderful blessed man unfortunately I never met him.  You did so much with Matt and I know the love you have for each other is eternal.  May your fond memories help you through this difficult time.

Love to you and family,

Kathy and Tom

Dear Karen, Chris, Juanita, Adelé, Brian, Christopher, and all the people whose lives have been touched by Norm, my deepest sympathies on your loss. I was privileged enough to meet Norm and Karen through Chris and Juanita, and I was immediately touched by how warm, caring, thoughtful, and clearly proud Norm was of Chris and Juanita. I can only imagine how his smile beamed for his grandchildren. Wishing you all much comfort and peace in the many happy and loving memories you have of him.

Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Karen and family,

  So very sorry for your loss, Norm was a Great Man with an Awesome smile!

He also was a great Neighbor to us so many years ago.

I know he will be dearly missed by many.

Prayers and hugs to you Karen, and family 

Jerry and Sally

Karen and family,

Norm was a wonderful man. So filled with faith and love. He will be missed at Resurrection.

May he rest in peace.

Judy and Dave Daniels