Norman Leifer (79) was born in Milwaukee on July 17, 1946, to Kermit and LaVerne Leifer.

After graduating from Bay View High School, he joined the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam. Upon returning home, he discovered that factory work was not for him and instead found great joy working with the young boys at the Milwaukee County Children’s Home.

It was there, in God’s perfect timing, that he met his wife, Bonnie. They shared a deep love for the outdoors, especially swimming. Their first home together was a small lake cottage outside of West Bend, though they later returned to the city. Still drawn to nature, they purchased a one-room cabin “in the middle of nowhere” up north.

Their love for the water continued to call them, and they eventually found a lake lot where they camped for several years before being able to buy and enjoy another lake cottage.

Throughout their 52 years of marriage, these special places were filled with family and friends, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, parents, and loved ones, along with many cherished dogs: six black labs, one beagle, one husky/retriever mix, and most recently, their sweet English yellow lab.

Norman at the age of 47 years retired from Milwaukee County. He began at the Children’s Home, where he found great fulfillment until it closed, and he later transitioned to the Department of Aging, serving senior citizens whose life stories deeply enriched his own.

In retirement, Norman found joy in photographing sunrises over Lake Michigan, the city deer, families of owls, and the beauty of nature, especially around Whitnall Park. He also enjoyed hiking and spending time at the cottage.

A man of strong faith, he devoted time to working with Missionaries to the Pre-Born, offering support and counsel to those facing difficult decisions.

Norman, a man of integrity and deep faith, will be greatly missed by his beloved wife, Bonnie (Risch); his sister, Janice Rogman (Terry); his brother-in-law, Gary Risch (Karin); his sister-in-law, Linde Hinkel (Scott); and his many dear nieces, nephews, and their children, who now carry on his love for life at the lake.

“Absent from the body, present with the Lord.”
Praise the Lord.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Norman’s honor to North Avenue Baptist Church, Missionaries to the Pre-Born, Annabelle Acres (Special Labs for Special People), or a charity of your choice.

Visitation and services will be held Tuesday, April 14 at:
North Avenue Baptist Church
15400 W. North Ave, Brookfield

Visitation 1:00-2:00
Celebration of Life at 2:00