Norman Bernstein

Norman Bernstein, beloved husband, father, Zaddie (grandfather), and friend, passed away surrounded by family and love at the age of 92.

Born April 4, 1933, in Brooklyn, New York, Norman grew up with an adventurous spirit and a deep love of learning. His family later moved to Brooklyn, Iowa, and then on to Sioux City, Iowa, where he graduated from Central High School in 1950. Norman graduated from the University of Minnesota, in 1955 with a degree in Metallurgy.

Following college, Norman briefly served in the U.S. Army, completing basic training and then working on airplanes at Republic Aviation. After his service, he became a research metallurgist at the U.S. Bureau of Mines.

The pull of family brought him back to Sioux City, where he joined his father, Sam, and brother, Jack, in the family business, Sioux City Compressed Steel and State Steel. Norman poured his heart and talents into the business, treating every employee and customer like family.

In 1966, Norman met the love of his life, Sheila Kantrovich. The two shared a beautiful love story — they met in December, were engaged in January, and married in February. Over the next 58 years, they built a life full of joy, laughter, and family.

Norman lived life with curiosity and passion. He took acting lessons in New York, briefly pursuing a lifelong dream of performing. He even passed the test to become an astronaut and held his pilot’s license. Closer to home, he graced the stage of the Sioux City Community Theater, performed on a local children’s television show at KTIV, in Shakespeare in the Park, and delighted audiences as the Grandfather in The Nutcracker. He also had a love of MG’s and at one time had 6 MG’s in numerous states of drivability.

A dedicated community member, Norman served on numerous boards and was deeply involved with both the Orthodox Synagogue and Temple Beth Shalom.

Norman was known for his dry sense of humor, gentle smile, and unwavering kindness. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a proud grandfather. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, and treasured memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His understated jokes and singing will always be remembered.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila; his children, Dr. Michael Bernstein (Gina) of St. Louis, Julie Bernstein of St. Louis, and Debbie LaCroix (Todd) of Dakota Dunes; five cherished grandchildren; siblings: Jack Bernstein (Gail) of Dakota Dunes and Elaine Berlind of Connecticut; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam & Gussie Bernstein and brother-in-law, Gene Berlind.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Congregation Beth Shalom in Sioux City. Burial will follow at Independent Farane Cemetery in Sioux City. Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel is assisting with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Care Initiatives Hospice, Sioux City Community Theater, or the Siouxland Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.