Norman O. Raatz

Norman “Norm” Otto Raatz, 88, of Appleton, Wisconsin, passed away on June 25, 2026.

Born on September 3, 1937, in Owen, Wisconsin, to Otto and Elda (Molle) Raatz, Norm grew up with a strong sense of duty and character. Following his graduation from high school, he proudly served his country in the Army National Guard, Red Arrow Division, an experience that shaped his disciplined approach to life.

Norm built a steadfast career at the Menasha Corporation, where he dedicated over 40 years of service. However, his greatest accomplishment was the life he built with his beloved wife, Nancy Kalies. Married in September 1960, they shared over 65 years of marriage, rooted in deep love, partnership, and mutual devotion. Together, they raised three wonderful children, creating a legacy of family that remained at the center of Norm’s world.

Norm was, above all, a family man. While he was a quiet individual, he was also incredibly handy and possessed a generous spirit, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. A true Wisconsinite at heart, Norm was a lifelong supporter of the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers. He was an avid outdoorsman who found peace in the woods, enjoying many years of fishing and hunting—most often for whitetail deer, though his adventures occasionally led him to pursue larger game, including elk and bear.

Throughout his life, Norm remained active and engaged with those he loved. Whether he was traveling to new places, enjoying a game of cards, or bowling in a couples’ league alongside Nancy, he lived with a quiet joy. More than anything, however, Norm cherished every moment spent with his wife and children. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy of devotion, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Norm will be deeply missed by his wife, Nancy; his children, Scott and Deanna (Michael) Raatz-Jacobs, his daughter-in-law, Joanne and her children, Joe (Tonya) Pinterics and Nicole (Andy) Casperson and their families, siblings; Verna McCabe, Delores Ewald, Gene (Gloria) Raatz, Otto Jr. Raatz. In-laws; Betty (Pete) Zarnoth, Virginia Zeimer, sisters-in-law Marlene Kalies, Janet Kalies and Beverly Kalies; and his beloved dog, Foxy.

Preceding him to heaven are his son, Todd; parents Otto and Elda; in-laws Carl F. and Emma (Maertz) Kalies, brother Marvin (Sandra) and sister Gwendolyn; in-laws Stanley McCabe, Gary Ewald, Laurie Raatz, Ralph (Elaine) Kalies, Elroy Kalies, Lloyd Kalies, Doris (Donald) Olp, Shirley (Eugene) Jandrey, Alfred Zeimer, Bonnie (Allen) See, and Carl Jr. Kalies; also many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends.

A memorial visitation will be held for Norm from 9AM - 11AMon Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at St. Matthew Ev. Lutheran Church, 129 S. Mason St, Appleton, WI 54911 with a memorial service to follow at 11 AM. Norm will be laid to rest at Community Lutheran Cemetery in Freedom, WI.