Norbert G. Dennerll, Jr.'s Obituary
Norbert G. Dennerll, Jr., age 96, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025. Born May 16, 1929, in Los Angeles, California. He was the beloved son of the late Norbert G. Dennerll, Sr. and Catherine (née Gildea).
He grew up in Cleveland, Ohio and graduated John Marshall High School. He earned a BA degree from Baldwin Wallace College in 1951 where he was an avid pole vaulter and member of the debate team. He attended Cleveland Marshall Law School.
During college he was in the Marine Corps Reserves and entered active duty during the Korean conflict. He went from the rank of private to infantry captain and was honorably discharged.
He was a three term Cleveland Councilmen, 1957 to 1964: Democrat nominee to Congress, 23rd District, 1964 and former first Vice President of Ohio Young Democrats.
He was an Ohio real estate broker, founder and superintendent of Freedom Academy Elementary School and Griswold High School in Cleveland, Ohio where he inspired young minds to think boldly and dream big. For 40 years, he brought wonder and joy to countless families through his beloved store, The Yellow Barrel of Magic—a place where magic and imagination came alive.
Norbert’s love for politics, spirited debates, and lifelong learning touched everyone who knew him. He wore many hats—educator, entrepreneur, real estate agent, public speaker, sponsor, and mentor—but above all, he was a man who believed in freedom, opportunity, and the power of ideas.
He was preceded in death by his wife Beverly (nee Gersdorf), siblings Patricia (Robert) Larsen, and Roger; his sons Jerry and Todd Evans; his daughter, Fayth and his grandson, Dustin.
He leaves behind a family who adored him: his sister-in-laws, Vivien Dennerll and Linda Gersdorf; his children James (Cathy) McTigue, Kathy (Dale) Kramer, Karen Davis, and Patty (Tom) Homish; and his cherished grandchildren Danielle, Patrick, Michael (Haleigh) Worley, Mathew (Felicia) Homish, Carli Bulley (née Homish), Brandon (Angela) Kramer, Brett (Christy) Kramer, Tobby (Nicole) Evans, and Connor Evans; 12 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. He was also a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews and a treasured friend to many.
Norbert’s legacy is one of kindness, wisdom, and unwavering belief in the good that education and community can bring. His laughter, stories, singing, positivity, and passion for life will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A Visitation will be held on December 5, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Sunset Chapel, 6245 North Columbia Road, North Olmsted, OH 44070, with a service immediately following at 1:00PM.
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