Norbert “Knobby” Balcerzak

Norbert “Knobby” Balcerzak, age 92 of North Toledo, died March 17, 2020 in Ebeid Hospice Residence, Sylvania. He was born July 18, 1927 to John and Pearl (Czyzewski) Balcerzak in Toledo. Knobby enlisted in the U.S. Navy just days before his eighteenth birthday and honorably served his country as a Fireman First Class in the final days of WWII aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard (CV 31). Following the war, he completed his high school education and began working at the Toledo Zoo. He then worked for the City of Toledo Water Department until he retired. On May 26, 1951, he married Mary Therese Nitkiewicz in St. Hedwig Catholic Church, a marriage lasting over 52 years, until her passing in 2004. Together they raised their four children. Knobby enjoyed fishing, hunting, his tomato garden, and just hanging out at the marina. As the years progressed, he became “Dzia” (grandpa) to his children’s children and enjoyed sharing the family traditions and holidays with them.

Norbert was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Busia Mary, brother, Leonard Balcerzak and son-in-law Bob Case. Surviving are his children: David A. (Ann) Balcerzak, Rose Case, Jean Balcerzak, and Steve Balcerzak as well as his grandchildren, Joshua Kolodzaike, Alex Case, Jessica Balcerzak, Elizabeth Case and Jonathan Balcerzak.

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