Norman Ernest Burbury, age 99, of Elgin, IL, passed away on February 7, 2024 at Avondale Estates Rehabilitation Center after a brief illness. He was born January 3, 1925 in Elgin, IL to his loving parents, Ernest and Helen (née Kuntsman) Burbury.

After graduating from high school, at age 19,  Norm joined the United States Navy and served on the battleship West Virginia (BB48) in the Pacific from 1944 until the war ended in 1946.

During his wartime Pacific tour aboard BB48, Norm took part in many decisive battles, including the Philippine Campaign during which the West Virginia led the line at the Battle of Surigao Straits; supporting troops in the Battle of Leyte; the invasion of Lingayen Gulf; and the Battles for Iwo Jima and Okinawa.  Norm was a true American World War II hero.

After the Navy, Norm was self-employed as an accountant for most of his working life and was involved in area accounting organizations.

He loved to play golf and watch the Bears, the Cubs and other sporting events.

In 2011, Norman traveled with Honor Flight to Washington D.C. and was able to visit the WWII Memorial, among other sites.

He was a long-time member of the Elgin Elks Lodge #737 where he had many good times with dear friends.  He was also a member of the American Legion Elgin Post 57 and the VFW Post 1307 in Elgin.

Norm is preceded in death by his parents; and three sisters, Elaine Quamme, Jean Goans, and Phyllis Kirmse.  He is survived by seven nieces and nephews and their children.

Norm wanted to live his life independently and was able to do so until his death with the help of very special friends.  His family is forever grateful for everyone who helped Norm fulfill this wish.

Interment with military honors will take place at 11:00am, Saturday, June 1, 2024 at Bluff City Cemetery, 945 Bluff City Boulevard, Elgin, IL 60120.

Final arrangements entrusted to Symonds-Madison Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-741-1128.