Norbert Peter Novitzke

Norbert P. Novitzke, 100, Athens, died Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Athenian Living Community, Athens.

He was born June 23, 1925, in the town of Emmet, the son of the late Benjamin and Katherine (Knetter) Novitzke. He married Helen Frieders on Oct. 5, 1948. She preceded him in death on Sept. 16, 2018.

Norbert was a WWII Navy veteran who served in Pearl Harbor with clean up and rebuilding. He and Helen farmed and operated a cattle business in the town of Hamburg for more than 40 years where he met many people who he would eventually call his friends. He had a passion for gardening which continued into his last days at Athenian where he was still growing some tomato plants for their garden. Norbert was definitely happiest while playing cards, fishing or hunting with family and friends. His sharp mind helped pass on many stories that we will forever remember with sometimes a gasp and always a chuckle.

Survivors include a son, Terry (Brenda) Novitzke, Arbor Vitae; a daughter, Clarice (Jim) Zenner, Medford; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Mark Novitzke, four brothers and a sister.

Services will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 29, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Athens. The Rev. George Graham will officiate. Entombment will be in Restlawn Cemetery, Wausau. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. Friday until time of services at the church. Beste Funeral Home, Mosinee, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.bestefh.com

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to the staff at Athenian Assisted Living, VA Home Health and St. Croix Hospice.