Norbert Harold Szymanowski

Norbert Harold Szymanowski, affectionately known as “Reds,” “Ski,” and “Norby” to family friends and colleagues, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, in Crofton, Maryland, surrounded by his loving family. He was 96.

Born on October 6, 1928, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Norbert was the son of the late John James and Otillia (Bialk) Szymanowski. He spent the first 17 years of his life as a farm boy in Wisconsin Dells, where his Wisconsin relatives lovingly called him “Norby.”

After graduating from Wisconsin Dells High School in 1946, Norbert enlisted in the United States Navy. He trained at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station and served in Washington, D.C., as a Communications Technician 2nd Class with OP-20G, the cryptologic arm of the Navy, then part of the Navy Communications Activity Washington (later the Naval Security Service). During this time, he met and married the love of his life, Marion O’Connor. He was honorably discharged in 1949, having earned the WWII Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

Following his military service, Norbert continued his work in national defense as a civilian with the Armed Forces Security Agency, which later became the National Security Agency (NSA). Over a distinguished five-decade career, he held numerous leadership roles, including Technical Director of the Operations Analysis Group and Chief of the Signals Analysis Division. His contributions to signals collection, analysis, and target development significantly advanced U.S. national security.

Norbert’s unwavering dedication and innovation earned him many accolades, including two Civilian Meritorious Service Awards, two Senior Technical Achievement Awards, the NSA Director’s Career Development Award, and the National Intelligence Medal of Achievement. Upon retirement in January 1997, he received a letter of appreciation from President Bill Clinton. One of the most meaningful honors was the establishment of the N.H. Szymanowski Team Award, presented to recognize team excellence in global contributions to cryptologic success. A testament of his legacy of teamwork, excellence and innovation. A lifelong learner, Norbert earned his BA in Business Administration from The George Washington University in 1961, completing his degree over 11 years of night school. He also graduated from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces (1967) and the United States Air War College (1968). After retirement in 1997, he shared his passion for history as a volunteer docent at the National Cryptologic Museum at Ft. Meade, where he especially enjoyed giving personal tours to friends and family. His personal anecdotes during the tours added to creating interest for young minds and first-hand accounts of security developments.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Reds was deeply devoted to his Catholic faith and community. He was active in the Knights of Columbus and served as a “teen advisor” in the Catholic Youth Organization at both St. Mary’s in Rockville and Landover Hills, Maryland. In 1961, he received the Pro Deo et Juventute ("For God and Youth") Award in recognition of his outstanding service to Catholic youth.

Reds was a proud fan of the Green Bay Packers and Washington Redskins (now Commanders), famously wearing a cheesehead at Lambeau Field in 2011—an image forever immortalized on the CBS news. He loved returning to his Wisconsin roots and revisiting childhood haunts, often collecting stories and family history to add to the family tree. He also found joy in simple pleasures: collecting coins, wearing caps and T-shirts from his grandchildren’s schools, and curating photos and videos on his iPad of the kids, dogs, and houses he loved.

His weekends were often filled with the happy chaos of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Holidays were especially meaningful—marked by traditions like making his famous Spritz cookies and Rum Balls at Christmas, his stuffed ham at Easter, and his beloved Polish cucumbers that always had a place on the table.

Reds felt things deeply. He could be brought to tears by something as simple and meaningful as a Father’s Day card or the quiet beauty of deer or fox passing through the yard. That sensitive spirit was one of the many perfect qualities that endeared him to so many. It’s no wonder he made and kept friends throughout his life—his kindness, empathy, and open heart touched everyone who knew him.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 62 years, Marion O’Connor, in 2010. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and service.

He is survived by his three daughters, Kathleen Nusbaum (Joseph), Sharon Fogler (William), and Julie Dunbar (Patrick); four granddaughters, Sarah (Todd), Meghan (Michael), Moira (Stinson), and Jennifer (Jake); and ten great-grandchildren.

Friends and relatives are invited to a Visitation on Wednesday, July 23, from 2:00–5:00 p.m. at Robert E. Evans Funeral Home.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, July 24, at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made in Norbert's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.