Norbert Jerome Michalak

Norbert J. Michalak, age 85 of Warren, died July 25, 2009. He was born in Detroit on October 29, 1923 to parents, Anthony & Emma (nee: Wachowiak) Michalak. With esteemed recognition, we pay tribute to Norbert for the part he played in serving our country during World War II as a member of the United States Air Force. After completing his military duties, Norbert went on to achieve his law degree which he put to work as an attorney with General Motors. Following 32 years of dedicated service to GM, he retired from there at the young age of 52, and decided to further his legal counsel through private practice. Along with being extremely intelligent and learned in his career path, these same traits and skills bore themselves out through his hobbies. From faceting jewelry to the intricacies of working with stained glass, he was a man of detail and resolve. Norbert was also known for being an avorice reader. It was not uncommon for him to come away from a trip to the library with 30 books in tow, nor to watch him go through them a book-a-day. But his pastimes weren't just relegated to using his hands and mind. Every now & then, this "humorous" man found boundless pleasure in the game of Bingo. Even more fun was enjoyed in sharing a good TV show or movie with his loved ones. Norbert loved spending time with his friends and family, and took extra pleasure in the "grandkid moments" of life. He was truly a "people person" and often stepped out to do some interesting things, just so he could interact with his fellow man. Many lives have been touched by Norbert, and his legacy will live on through the hearts he impacted along the way. Along with his beloved wife, Jane (nee: Karaniewski), he leaves two children, Sharon (Raymond) Ellerbe and Linda Michalak. He was predeceased by two sons, Michael and Bruce. Devoted grandfather of Justin, Adrienne, Amanda, Ashley, Mary, and great-granddaughter, Hannah. Visitation for Norbert will be held on Wednesday from 3:00-9:00pm, with an evening Rosary Service at 7 pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 1/2 Mile Rd.) in Warren. Mr. Michalak will lie in state Thursday 9:00 am. at St. Martin De Porres Catholic Church until time of service at 9:30 am. In honor of his military service, he will be buried at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Please share memories of Norbert at his Guest Book.