Norbert Joseph Holz Sr.

Holz, Norbert “Norb” Joseph, Sr., 89, of Brandon, FL, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2026 after a lengthy journey with Alzheimer's disease. Born in Orland Park, Illinois on March 22, 1937, he married Barbara Gestner at age 19, raising five highly talented, self-reliant children of whom he was very proud. Though their marriage ended in 1985, Barbara sincerely appreciated Norbert’s continued friendship and support throughout the years, right up until her passing in 2019.

Norb knew the value of hard work from a very young age, first on a neighbor’s pig farm, later in his uncle’s concrete company. He soon founded his own construction company, focusing on concrete. The harsh Illinois winters eventually drove him to seek the warmer climate of Tampa Bay. In 1972, he moved his young family to Spring Hill, FL, following his uncle, Orville Holz, with whom he eventually invented the revolutionary triple-troweling machine. Holz built a large office, warehouse and mini-storage complex on US 19, The 3000 Complex, where he also ran his pool and spa business, sold sheds and solar water heating systems, and dabbled in real estate. Norb worked into his 80’s, having an innate need and desire to achieve and accomplish things to make the world a better place. His work and satisfaction in a job well done continued to give him purpose.

Holz was a devout Catholic and showed his faith not only by attending Mass, but also as an usher and handyman when needed. He was known for his love of travel, taking his family of seven on many summer trips across the continent in various campers and RVs, some self-constructed, all in frequent need of repair.

Holz was known for his deep generosity and kindness to others, including supporting friends with business endeavors and helping many through hard financial times. Despite enjoying success in his numerous businesses, Holz remained “thrifty” throughout his life, preferring hamburgers and jeans to suits and steaks.

Norbert was predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Genevieve Holz, and his siblings Arthur Holz, Jr., Thomas Holz, Mary Aufmann, and Nora House. He is survived by his brother Patrick “Dick” (Jill) Holz, his loving children, Norbert Holz, Jr., Bryon (Leesa) Holz, Rana (Scott) Moeggenberg, Christine (Dennis) Holz-Lim & Lenore Holz, grandchildren Joseph, Sarah, Andrew, Stephanie, Luke, and Annalise, great grandchildren Genevieve, Owen and Otto, his former wife Lydia Holz, numerous devoted nieces and nephews throughout the country, and many friends.

His family will receive friends during visitation on Monday, November 2nd at Hillsboro Memorial from 6-7:30 p.m., with a memorial service at 7 p.m. A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, November 3rd at 10:30 at Nativity Catholic Church, 705 E. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon, followed by the Catholic Rite of Christian Burial graveside at Hillsboro Memorial Gardens.

The family requests donations be made to your local St. Vincent de Paul Society or house of worship in lieu of flowers.