Alexander Norman Reath Jr. "Norm", age 97, of Fremont passed away Saturday, October 9, 2021, in Fennville under the loving care of his family. Norm was born on March 12, 1924, in Iron Mountain, Michigan to Alexander Norman and Hildur Elvira (Erickson) Reath Sr. Proudly enlisting in the United States Army during WWII, Norm served a Staff Sergeant in 232nd Infantry Regiment 42nd Division. Fighting a deadly war in Europe had a profound impact on Norm's life, though he seldom spoke about his time overseas. Upon rare moments of reflection, Norm shared that he still could hear the whine of an 88 shell and feel the relentless cold and dampness that accompanied months upon months of marching through rain, sleet, and snow. In April 1945, Norm helped to liberate Dachau concentration camp and eventually made the long trip home a year later. Upon his return to the United States, a chance encounter at the Michigan State University Student Union led Norm to meet his future bride, Edna Jane Nissley "Jane", and they wed on August 26, 1949. Norm graduated with a master's degree in Horticulture and was one of the first Agricultural Research Engineers at Gerber Products Company. During his 35 years of employment at Gerber, Norm passionately worked with universities and growers across the country to optimize fruits and vegetables for baby food production. In his free time, Norm attended the Fremont United Methodist Church, enjoyed traveling with his wife Jane, exploring the Michigan outdoors, and watching sunsets over Crystal Lake. Norm considered his family to be his greatest accomplishment, and often imparted the following words of wisdom: "Keep all arguments small," "Love one another," and "Don't let the bastards get you." Norm is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Jane; children, Jane (Paul) Sawin of Manton; Carol (Greg) Josefowicz of Fennville; Norma (Steve) Roelfsema of Cedar Springs; and Scott (Carla) Reath of Las Vegas, Nevada; his grandchildren, William Sawin; Andrew (Megan) Sawin; Leslie (Max) Weigandt; Lynne (John) Frank; Lauren Josefowicz; Erik (Gina) Peterson; Dr. Stephen (Dr. Maria Hassan) Peterson; Tyler (Diana) Roelfsema; Alexander (Allie) Reath; Nicholas Reath; 7 great-grandchildren; and many special friends. He was preceded in death by his 5 brothers and sisters. Following the family's wishes, cremation has taken place and a celebration of life service will occur in the Sherman Township Cemetery at a later date. Friends are asked to consider the Fremont Area Community Foundation for the Jane and Norm Reath Scholarship Fund. The family welcomes shared memories and condolences at www.crandellfh.com. Arrangements by Crandell Funeral Home – Fremont Chapel. 231-924-0800 To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Alexander "Norm" Norman Reath Jr., please click here to visit our Sympathy Store. Celebration Of Life