At 89, Norman “NORM!” Bezrutch is hanging up his work shoes — again — this time retiring from his role at the Meijer store in Hartland. Most people his age are slowing down, but not Norm. This big, strong, cheerful guy with an athletic build and boundless energy has never been one to sit still. (Picture a highly caffeinated Energizer Bunny with a winning smile.)
After retiring in 2005 from Ford Motor Co. as a pattern maker, Norm quickly knocked out the infamous “honey-do” list at home. But idle time didn’t sit well with him. He took on a second career at Meijer, where he became a familiar face on the receiving dock — unloading trucks, moving pallets, and driving forklifts to keep the shelves stocked. It was hard, physical work, but Norm handled it with the same enthusiasm and vigor that defined his first career — and his life in general.
Even during the pandemic — when his family worried for his health and urged him to step back — Norm stood firm. “People still need to eat, and I still need to put food on the shelves,” he said.
His coworkers came to admire Norm not just for his strength and conviction, but for his ever-present smile and helpful, positive attitude. He was the kind of teammate who made the workday better — and somehow managed to outlast people half his age.
But work is only one part of Norm’s story. He and his wife Arlene have been married for over 60 years, raising five daughters—Valerie, Tammy, Tracy, Kelley, and Keira. When the girls were growing up, Norm and Arlene were deeply involved in their lives and activities: Arlene led Girl Scouts and taught vacation Bible school, while Norm coached softball and basketball. They were a true team — hands-on parents building a loving, energetic home.
These days, they’re enjoying the rewards of their hard work: 14 grandchildren and a new great-grandson, Freddie Joseph. Norm has always had a special bond with his grandkids. Each summer, he made it his mission to teach them how to bait a hook, cast a line, and reel in a fish during family trips up north. Those fishing lessons turned into unforgettable memories that his grandchildren will cherish forever.
A skilled tradesman by profession, Norm has always been good with his hands. Over the years, he built everything from game boards and toy train tables to hand-crafted cradles for the babies. His craftsmanship — like everything else he does — was rooted in love.
Even now, Norm’s not one to sit around. Sure, he may have slowed down just a touch, but his “can-do” spirit is still going strong. There’s always a project to tackle, something to fix, or a reason to get moving. It just might take a little longer these days.
Outside of family and fixing things, Norm has another great love: sports — especially bowling. Arlene jokes that he’s been bowling for a hundred years. Norm calls the bowling alley his sanctuary. Every Monday night in Howell, he joins his buddies for stories, laughter, a few beers, and plenty of strikes.
And of course, we can’t forget the hair. Norm’s thick, bushy mane is legendary. It’s the envy of men everywhere — especially his four sons-in-law, who can only dream of such a glorious head of hair.
As he closes this chapter of this career (you never know, there may be another) Norm leaves behind a legacy not just of hard work but of love, laughter and an ever-present spirit of joy. Retirement, for Norm, isn’t the end. It’s just the next chance to build something, fix something, or teach someone something new.
So, here’s to you, Norm. You may be officially retired (again), but your energy, warmth, and passion will continue to inspire everyone lucky enough to know you.
And besides, you still have one more fishing lesson to give — Freddie Joseph is waiting.
Congratulations, Norm!
