Norman J. Gitzen, Sr., 89, formerly of Liverpool, NY, and most recently residing in Lantana, FL, passed away at home on Friday, November 8, 2024.

Born in Pittsburgh, PA in 1935 to John and Elizabeth (Heyer) Gitzen, Norm's life was marked by warmth, devotion, and an unwavering dedication to his family and community. Norm was the pillar of his family, and his children and grandchildren fondly remember him driving the houseboat, toasting before every meal, and wringing joy out of life's every turn. Norm graduated from St. Wendelin High School in Pittsburgh, where his values of hard work, compassion, and service took root.

Norm called his wife of 67 years, Anne Marie (Sholly), his greatest blessing in life. Their partnership was filled with love, laughter, travel, and countless cherished memories. Norm built a career as an Independent Manufacturers Representative before founding Gitzen Companies, Inc., where he thrived for 34 years until his well-deserved retirement. He was deeply engaged in the professional community, contributing to organizations such as the Producers' Council and the American Institute of Architects.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud father of five, a doting grandfather of 13, and a neighbor known for his generosity and readiness to help anyone in need. His grandchildren were the light of his life, bringing him boundless happiness.

An active parishioner of Christ the King Church, Norm lent his time and heart to the Parish Council and church choir, embodying faith through service and song. He sang with the Bicentennial Chorus and other community choirs, a testament to his vibrant and giving nature. Summers were especially treasured, as Norm would spend them surrounded by family and friends, boating on the St. Lawrence River and enjoying a meal at 'Tree Top' in the Thousand Islands—a place that brought him immense joy and peace.

Norm is predeceased in death by his parents, his sister, Betty Susnak, and his brothers, Donald and Russell Gitzen. His legacy of love lives on through Anne and his children; Marianne (Michael) Arcieri of Boston, MA, Norman J. Gitzen, Jr. of Lake Worth, FL, Mark (Leslie) Gitzen of Marcellus, NY, John (Heidi) Gitzen of Manlius, NY, and Beth (Andy) Dirats of Stuart, FL, 13 treasured grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews who will forever hold him in their hearts.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 22, 2024 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Maurer Funeral Home, Inc., 300 Second St., Liverpool, NY 13088. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 11:00 am in Christ the King Church, 21 Cherry Tree Circle, Liverpool, NY 13090.

In lieu of flowers, Norm's family kindly requests that contributions be made in his memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Please sign the Maurer Funeral Home online guestbook for Norm to express your condolences to his family.