Norman F. Heinrich

He was born on August 20, 1945, to Edward and Eva Heinrich. After graduating from high school, he enrolled at Wayne State University to pursue a degree in education. His studies were interrupted when he was drafted into the Vietnam War, where he served in the United States Army. Upon returning home, Norman was determined to finish what he started, he completed his schooling and earned not only his Bachelor's degree, but two Master's degrees as well. He went on to spend his career as a high school special education teacher, dedicating himself to students who needed him most.

While putting himself through school, Norman worked at a grocery store, which lead to him meeting his future wife Eleonore. The pair were married on April 27, 1968 at St. Hyacinth Catholic Church and celebrated more than 58 years of marriage. He was a proud father to their daughter Catheryn and the three of them had many adventures.

After retiring from teaching, Norman embraced his new chapter with enthusiasm. He was an active competitor in the Senior Olympics, where he excelled at badminton, both in singles and doubles play. He also had a passion for salmon fishing, but his happiest days were spent at his cottage in Lexington, playing cards, croquet, and spending time with family. Norman loved crossword puzzles, Pinochle, bumpy cake, Hallmark movies, and even drafted a novel, but he also loved leisurely afternoons watching television and sports.

Several years ago, Norman finally convinced Eleonore getting a dog would be good for his health. True to his word, he walked his yellow lab Rocky faithfully three times a day and they both amassed many friends (human and canine) throughout the neighborhood on their daily walks. Years later, Lily joined the ranks and Norman walked her as long as his health allowed.

Above all, Norman treasured being a grandfather. He was a constant, beaming presence at his granddaughters Stephanie and Amanda's ice-skating practices, and he never hesitated to travel out of state to cheer them on at competitions; he was, without question, their number one fan. He also cherished family trips up north, road trips to Florida, college visits to Ann Arbor and East Lansing, and watched Michigan Football win the Citrus Bowl in Orlando in 2016.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Norman is predeceased by parents, Edward and Eva Heinrich; brother, Edward Heinrich; and sister, Dolores Gildenphennig.

Norman is survived by his wife, Eleonore Heinrich; daughter, Cathy (Al Shenouda) Heinrich; and granddaughters, Stephanie Shenouda and Amanda Shenouda.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at A.H. Peters Funeral Home located at 20705 Mack Ave. Grosse Pointe Woods, MI from 5:00pm until 8:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 10:00am, with an instate period beginning at 9:30am at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church located at 467 Fairford Rd, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236.