Norman Edward Then

Norman Edward Then, 91 of Arbor Vitae died peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at Seasons of Life Hospice. Born on June 16, 1934, in Chicago. Preceded in death by his parents Edward and Edna Then and brother Herbert and his wife Evelyn.

“Normie,” as he was fondly called, was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church and the American Legion in Woodruff. Norm and his wife Jan moved over 40 years ago to pursue their dream up north. He was a photoengraver for the Chicago Tribune and one of the original founders of T&T Auto Service Minocqua with his son Edward Then, Sr., still in business today. Post retirement, he worked at TJ’s Butcher Block where a ‘Normie Ribeye’ was a popular summer steak!

He was an avid fisherman and loved boating with family and friends especially at his previous home in St. Germain. In later years, he enjoyed nature at his Arbor Vitae home, especially the albino deer and squirrel… and loved his birds!

Norm was a true family man, loving God, his Country, and his beloved wife Jan of 70 years. He will be deeply missed by all who were privileged to know him. He was the cherished father of: Ellen (Richard) Hurt, Edward Then Sr. (Grace Koskey, significant other), Lauren (Kevin) Hughes, Michael (Sharon) Then, precious grandfather… “Poppy” to: Edward Then Jr. (Lauren) Then, Kristin (Reid) Conklen, Phillip Cazares (Elvis Pinto, significant other), Joshua (Virginia) Then, Daniel (Taylor) Hurt, Michael Cazares loving great grandfather… “Poppy” to Natalie and Madeline Then, Tyler and Elizabeth Conklen, Nora, Joshua Norman (JJ), and Thomas Then.

Please see nimsgernfuneral.com for Mass and burial information. Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.