Norman M. Van Drisse

Norman M. Van Drisse Norman M. Van Drisse, 96 of Luxemburg, passed away on Tuesday, September 1, 2015 following a short illness and surrounded by his daughters. He lived a long, happy, and productive life filled with family, lifelong friendships, hard work, and service to his community, always ready to entertain with his skills on the accordion. Norman was born September 27, 1918 in Lincoln, WI to the late George and Elizabeth (Colle) Van Drisse. He married Beverly Brice on September 27, 1939 at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Green Bay, WI. She preceded him in death on February 19, 2008. Norman and Beverly founded Van Drisse Oil Company, delivering Mobil Oil products throughout the Luxemburg, Casco & New Franken area. In conjunction with the oil company, they also ran a full service gas station, farm tractor tire business, sold Artic Cat snowmobiles and Silverline boats. He is responsible for building the gas station in Dyckesville, the first laundromat and car wash in Luxemburg as well as coming up with the concept of the Luxemburg Village Rummage Sale. Norman was awarded the Community Service Award in 1971. He was a Charter member of Northbrook Country Club, Luxemburg Chamber of Commerce, American Tree Farmers, Luxemburg Sportsmen’s Club, Holy Name Society of St. Mary Catholic Church, Catholic Order of Foresters Court 1065, and American Legion Ralph Kline post 262. Norman was a WWII Veteran and thanks to the guardianship of Frank Hoida, he took a memorable trip on the Old Glory Honor Flight to Washington DC August 31, 2010. Norman enjoyed being part of the Luxemburg community and treasured the personal and professional relationships he built over the years with his customers, local businesses, Chamber members, parishioners at St. Mary Church, his fishing buddies, golfing companions at Northbrook County Club, and anyone who would listen to him “play a number” on his beloved accordion or sit down for a round of cards. Marco Island, FL was a winter retirement destination for Norman and Beverly. They shared this place and many happy times with family and friends. Every visitor was treated to a boat ride around the island and possibly a strong Old Fashioned! In the past few years, Norman developed a special relationship with Laura Hessel and their devoted companionship brought much joy to them and to their families. Survivors include his three daughters, Linda (Tom J.) Rueckl, Luxemburg; Mary Van Drisse (Jack Davies), Green Bay; and Jane Kahr, Luxemburg. He was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren, Trent (Ann Marie) Van Drisse, Louisville, KY; Brett Van Drisse, Green Bay; James Van Drisse II, Fesno, CA; Jeff (Lynn) Rueckl, Luxemburg; David (Gail) Rueckl, Casco, Tim (special friend Marie McDougal), Wrightstown; Tom G. (Nicole) Rueckl, Luxemburg; Don (Dr. Rachel Pildis) Anderson, Oak Park, IL; Susan Anderson (Dr. David Johnson) Salt Lake City, UT; Gina (Gary)Freels, Mosinee; Kyle Kahr (special friend Brooke Bredael), Luxemburg; 18 great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews further survive. Norman was preceded in death by his loving wife, Beverly; one son, James N. Van Drisse; one brother, Elmer (Vivian) Van Drisse; two sisters, Violet (Clarence) Bultman and Meriella Van Drisse; one son in law, Francis Kahr. Friends may call at the McMAHON FUNERAL HOME, LUXEMBURG, 3:00 to 6:00 pm on Sunday, September 6, 2015. Closing rosary service with Deacon Robert Miller, 6:00 pm on Sunday. American Legion Ralph Kline Post 262 memorial service following the rosary Sunday evening. Visitation will continue between 9:30 and 10:45 am on Monday, September 7, 2015 at St. Mary Church, Luxemburg. Funeral 11:00 am Monday with Rev. Milton Suess officiating. Burial in St. Mary Cemetery, Luxemburg with full military rites at graveside. www.mcmahonfh.com. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been set up in Norman’s name for the American Legion Ralph Kline Post 262, Luxemburg and the Ribbon of Hope foundation. The family wishes to thank Autumn’s Promise, Unity Hospice for their thoughtful and respectful care of Norman at the end of his life and Rev Milton Suess for his visits and prayers.