Norbert Edgar 'Norb' Kabelitz

The Reverend Dr. Norbert Kabelitz of Oklahoma City passed away, July 20, 2010. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Lois (Griebel) and five children: Lynn Lofton, Jody Pickrahn, Jeffrey Kabelitz, Carol Kabelitz, and Sharon Kabelitz, 10 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter. He is preceded in death by his parents, his twin brother Herbert (died at age 2½ years), sisters Hildegard, Ruth, Sally, and twin brothers Robert and Richard. One of 10 children, Norbert was born May 18, 1929 in Fenton, Iowa, to Richard and Maria (Schneider) Kabelitz. Norbert attended Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and was ordained on August 1, 1954 at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Duluth, Minnesota and Christ Church, Holyoke, MN by his father, also a Lutheran minister. From 1954-1966, "Pastor Norb" served Redeemer in Duluth, MN; Olive Branch Lutheran, in Coon Rapids, MN; and Hilltop Church of the Ascension, in South Bend, IN. From 1966-1988, Pastor Norb was the passionate and inspirational leader of Redeemer Lutheran Church, in Oklahoma City. During his 22 years of leadership among parishioners, and the greater Oklahoma City community, Pastor Norb—truly moved and driven by the gospel—commanded admiration, affection, and loyalty among parishioners of all ages. The motto of Redeemer Lutheran Church, "We Move on a Promise," was not just a slogan to Pastor Norb and his congregation; it was their call to action. Nationally, Pastor Norb was known among the Lutheran community for his responsibility and sacrifice, to the point of imprisonment for his beliefs and deeds. He was also awarded and recognized for his work: receiving the Vilona P. Culter Award from Urban League for outstanding service; and an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Christ Seminary-Seminex, Chicago. In 1988 Pastor Norb and Lois moved to Florida, where he continued his revitalizing service at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, in Pinellas Park, and Hope Lutheran Church until retiring in 2002. In retirement, Pastor Norb worked on his tennis game, but continued to preach, teach, and minister to those in need, ceaselessly moving the gospel into action. In 2008 Norb and Lois moved back to Oklahoma City to be with family. May he rest in peace and inspire us to continue the work he dedicated his life to.