Freeport – Norma Ann E. Burckhardt, 73, of Freeport passed away on Monday, July 10, 2023 with her family at her side.  She was born on May 17,1950 to the late Stanley and Jane (Szymanski) Shway in Chicago, IL.  She graduated from Harold L. Richards high school in Oak Lawn, IL in 1968 and then attended Eastern Illinois University where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Education in 1972.  She married Grant Burckhardt April 10, 1976 and together they raised their only son and built a life on their family farm. She was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church of Freeport.  During her teaching years she loved working with her students and the lifelong friendships she built with her teaching colleagues.  Most recently, Norma was working as a receptionist at Stephenson Nursing Center where she enjoyed interacting with the residents and her co-workers.  She loved her family, especially her three beautiful grandchildren.  Her favorite hobbies included crossword puzzles, reading, watching her son play and coach Forreston football, and spending time with her friends and family.  Norma was known to many for her kind heart, witty sense of humor, and unconditional love. She is survived by her husband, Grant, of Freeport.  Her son, Greg (Courtney) Burckhardt of Freeport as well as her sister, Karen Shway, of Santa Fe, NM.  Her legacy also includes her three precious grandchildren, Evelyn, Aria, and Noah Burckhardt of Freeport.

Services will be Saturday, July 15 with a visitation beginning at 10am and a service to follow at 11am all at Walker Mortuary.  There will be a buffet luncheon following the service at Ciminos. A memorial has been established in her name.  Condolences can be left for the family at www.walkermortuary.com.