Norman D. Kanwischer

Norman Dale "Norm" Kanwischer, 67, Moorhead, MN, passed away Saturday, July 4, 2015, with the loving company of his family by his side.

Norm was born August 9, 1947, in New Rockford, ND, to Mavis and Norman Kanwischer. Norm grew up in Harvey, ND, and later moved to the Fargo-Moorhead area where he and his wife, Shelley (Fike) Kanwischer, raised their family. Norm served his country as a medic during the Vietnam War and, after leaving the armed forces, worked for the US Postal Service, from which he retired in 2006.

Norm had an intimate relationship with the south Moorhead community where he lived and in which he walked for 27 years as a letter carrier. To his neighbors, he was a reliable and friendly face even in the worst of weather. Norm's familiarity with the neighborhood also supported his pastime of collecting antiques and vintage oddities, he always knew where to find the best garage sales!

Norm was a contemplative guy who enjoyed time at home reading about ideas and current events, keeping tabs on the backyard birds, and spending time with his friends, family and cat. He was also adventurous and loved the outdoors. Norm found great joy traveling to visit family and friends with Shelley, digging his cleats into the soccer pitch and catching the breeze while riding his bike around town.

Norm was sensitive and sincere and found deep meaning in music and photography. He loved going to see live music and had shared many of his favorite musicians with his children by taking them to concerts. His keen photographic eye and a knack for creating and capturing memorable moments has created a cherished collection of images which will forever influence the life journey of his friends and family.

Norm is remembered by those who knew him as a gentle and caring father, devoted husband and son, and treasured friend. He was humble and generous with his time, always putting others' well-being before his own.

Norm will be deeply missed by his wife of 43 years, Shelley (Fike) Kanwischer, of Moorhead; his children, Kristin Stober and Kelly Coe, of Charleston, SC, Derek Kanwischer, of Kalamazoo, MI, Heather McIntyre-Haas, of Omaha, NE, and Jolayne Christner, of Spokane, WA; and his siblings, Betty Thune, of Bismarck, ND, and Carol Bessel, of Prescott, AZ. Norm is also survived by seven grandchildren and four great- grandchildren. Norm's companionship will also be remembered by Thomas the Cat, his loyal bud throughout a hard-fought battle with cancer.

A private Family Gathering was held by Norman's Family.