Norman Joseph Bilty (1934-2025), 90, was born into eternal life on March 11, 2025.

Norman was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI, to Joseph Ambrose Bilty and Martha Bilty (nee Wisotzke), on 11/17/34. He was preceded in death by his older brother, William Bilty.

Norman (Norm} attended Holy Trinity Grade School, Notre Dame High School, and briefly attended UW - Milwaukee (where he played football when they still had a team!) He later served in the U.S. Army from 1957-59 and then began an over 40-year career at Miller Brewery, and was able to enjoy a long, relaxing retirement.

Known for his prolific storytelling, Norm was a passionate outdoorsman and loved to hunt and fish-especially ice fishing and was known to his friends and family to be one of the best. Growing up, we had a home-made fish-fry every Friday with fish he caught! He pioneered techniques and even made his own lures/flies, etc.

Another one of his passions was organic gardening. He turned a large yard, full of clay and rocks, into a veritable botanical garden, composting before it was popular, and raising everything from vegetables to flowers. Our pantry and freezer were always well stocked with various canned vegetables. He was very proud of his garden and was always happy to provide a guided tour.

Norm was the consummate provider/family man. He and Joyce worked tirelessly their entire lives to ensure their children were taken care of, even when times were tight. He often worked seven days a week to make ends meet and ensure his children were well educated and would never go without.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Joyce (nee Koester), children, Joseph, Laura (Edel Alonso Munoz), and Cara (Bryan Obst). He is also survived by his seven grandchildren: Gaige, Nycholas, Sebastian, Sara, Jonah, Sofia and Leila, and many friends and relatives.

Norman's humor, wisdom, generosity, courage, and love will leave a lasting impression on those of us who were fortunate to have known him, and he will be greatly missed. We love you DAD!

We would like to extend sincere gratitude for all of his caregivers, especially the Aurora HealthCare Health at Home hospice team, and Comfort Keepers, who demonstrated outstanding compassion, professionalism, and respect.