Lenora M. Norwood

LeNora Marie Norwood, aged 76, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025, in Gurnee, Illinois, surrounded by the love of her immediate family after a courageous battle with HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Born on October 8, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, to Frank M. and Dolores M. Cyman, LeNora lived a life defined by dedication, warmth, and a loving spirit that touched all who knew her.

LeNora was the heart of her family—a devoted wife to Dale for 56 years, a loving mother to Kenneth Norwood and Kevin (Kaisa – beloved daughter in-law, whom she loved as her very own) Norwood, a doting grandmother to Brock, Brady, and Bryson Norwood, and a big sister to Pamela (Steve) Colletti and Cynthia Bariamis, as well as a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews. She was also deeply connected to her cousins and friends, especially her lifelong best friend Kathy Kowalski, whose bond with LeNora endured a lifetime beginning in her early school years. Her passing leaves a void felt by all, preceded by her parents and her grandmother, Elizabeth "Betty" Cyman.

LeNora's happiest moments were spent with family, creating cherished traditions during vacations in Hayward, Wisconsin. Whether enjoying casino nights with her parents or embarking on fishing trips that spanned 60+ years—where she still holds the family record for the biggest musky caught to this day—she filled these times with laughter, love, and stories that will echo through generations. Her joy in spoiling her grandchildren with endless treats and surprises because "they have to have choices!" her passion for shopping (especially with nieces and grandkids), and her gentle generosity made her a beacon of light, even amidst her recent health struggles. Her resilience in facing HNSCC inspired her family by leaving behind a legacy of her unwavering strength.

LeNora devoted 25 years of her professional life to Motorola, where her loyalty and hard work earned her respect and admiration before her retirement. LeNora's early education at St. Tarcissus Catholic School and her graduation from Schurz High School laid the foundation for a life of faith and family.

Her burial at Ft. Sheridan National Cemetery, Vattman Rd, Lake Bluff, IL 60044 will be a private funeral attended only by immediate family, honoring her husband Dale's service in the Army during Vietnam. She will be cremated, reflecting her humble wishes. In lieu of a wake or viewing, the family invites friends and loved ones to join a Gathering of Remembrance, date and location to be updated at a later time, where food and drinks will be provided. Please, no donations to family. However, feel free to donate to the charity of your choice, in LeNora Marie Norwood's loving memory.

The family extends profound gratitude to the caregivers at Rush University Medical Center, Journey Care Hospice, and Strang Funeral Chapel during LeNora's illness.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, a testament to a life beautifully lived.  All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.