A much-loved husband, father, grandfather, and U.S. Navy Veteran passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on 5/11/2026.
Born on 7/11/1937, in Chicago, IL to John S. Flaws and Tillie E. Gorgol-Flaws, he then moved to Oak Lawn, IL in 1949 where he met his future wife and love of his life, Patricia, at the age of 12.
He graduated Oak Lawn Community High School in 1955.
He joined the Navy branch of the U.S. Military at Great Lakes Naval Air Station in January, 1956, and spent the next 4 years on naval ships, stationed in Japan, the Philippines, and California. During this time, he learned the electrical trade. Also, during this time, he and Patricia wrote letters to each other frequently (most of these letters were saved all these years). Eventually, they confessed their love to each other, and when he returned home to Oak Lawn in January, 1960, they began their love story.
Norman transferred into the Navy Reserves for two more years and was given an honorable discharge in January, 1962. While in the Reserves, he joined the IBEW Electrical Union under an apprenticeship.
On 1/28/1961, Norman and Patricia married. Within 6 years, they had three beautiful children together – Jeffrey, Cheryl, and Llana. Norm and Patricia built a loving, fun, wonderful life together in Darien, IL and just celebrated their 65-year anniversary in January, 2026.
During his electrician career, he became a project manager, and managed large projects in the Chicago area, such as the Sears Tower the early 1970’s. Eventually he became chief electrical estimator and won many large bids for Hyre Electric Company. Before retiring in 1999, he earned much respect and trust of his fellow colleagues and customers. Once he retired, Norm and Pat moved to Huntley, IL and enjoyed the recreation and the people of the Del Webb Community.
Norm worked side jobs to give his family extra money so they could do things like annual family vacations. Norm loved to travel and see different places around the country and he enjoyed taking his family with. Camping was always a great time in places like Florida, Minnesota, Arkansas, and anywhere there was a fishing lake nearby. Norm also took vacations with his wife and his friends – cruises to the Bahamas, flights to Hawaii, hot-air balloon races in New Mexico, fishing in Canada, etc.
He spent so much quality time with his family, playing board games, teaching them golf and softball, and going to amusement parks. He was a terrific handyman around the house; he could fix and/or decorate just about anything. He found time to help the kids with homework when needed, and he served as a Boy Scout Master in Darien for several years.
He made so many friends throughout his life, and he always had a great joke or two to share to make people laugh. He had quick wit and a great sense of humor. Anyone who knew Norm would describe him as fun, kind, handsome, generous, helpful, and hilarious.
Norm greatly enjoyed his time voluntarily serving in the Darien Lions Club from 1984 to 1999, where he participated in such honorable events like Candy Day and other fundraisers. His fellow Lions loved him and spoke highly of him.
His passions in life were book reading, playing golf, fishing, hunting, dancing, watching the Chicago Bears, and answering all the questions on the Jeopardy TV show. But his family always came first and he was there for them every step of the way. He loved taking his wife out for dinner and dancing, and his talented dances included the Jitterbug and the Waltz.
Norman was preceded in death by his parents and his loving sister, Charlene Flaws-Presbitero.
Norman is survived by his wife of 65 years, Patricia Prokop-Flaws, by his son, Jeff Flaws and daughter-in-law Doreen, of Tinley Park, IL, by his daughter Cheryl Johnson, of Orlando, FL and by his youngest daughter, Llana Wallace, of Crystal Lake. He is also survived by 6 smart, talented, and beautiful grandchildren: Shaun Johnson, Bryana Johnson, Garrett Johnson, Christopher Wallace, Andrew Wallace, and Matthew Wallace.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 10am at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery-20953 W Hoff Rd, Elwood, IL 60421. Where military rites will be accorded.
For further information contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
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He will be missed. I will never forget spending so much time with the family especially those summer time camping trips. Love You Uncle Norm
I remember looking up to Norm, (Butch) as my handsome cousin who made me smile especially when he gave me rides on the back of his huge motorcycle 🥰
My brother in-Law for 65 years, better known as my boyfriend, (family) joke) for many years, I always told him he was my favorite and he always said "well I am your only brother - In law ", it wouldn't have mattered, he would have always been my favorite. Norm, you were loved and will be missed. Rest in eternal peace.
My Hero, My Daddy, My Everything - You were the best provider, best protector, most fun-loving, nurturing, and generous guy and father that made this "daddy's girl" have a wonderful 59 years on this earth. You left me with so many wonderful memories that will last me until I see you again in Heaven! I can never thank you enough, but you know how I felt about you, because remember.......... I. L.O.V.E. Y.O.U. M.O.R.E. ALWAYS!!!