Norbert Merle Brady

Norbert Merle Brady, a devoted husband, loving father, dedicated educator, and man of deep faith, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2024 at the age of 95. Born on November 7, 1928, to Merle and Gladys Brady, Norb grew up in the small town of Clayton, Illinois, alongside his three brothers: Charles, Maurice, and Don. His early years were spent in a simpler time, with no electricity, indoor plumbing, or modern conveniences like television or refrigerators. Yet, from an early age, Norb was instilled with values of hard work, self-reliance, and the importance of family.

Norb graduated from Clayton High School in 1946 as Valedictorian. He attended Quincy College and later earned a degree from Western Illinois State University in 1950. He served his country in the United States Air Force, where he met the love of his life, Agnes Mullane, at a USO event. The couple married in 1954 and went on to raise seven children: Anne, Katie, Colleen, Linda, Eileen, Joe, and Ed.

For nearly 60 years, Norbert and Agnes built a life together, characterized by a strong marriage, unwavering commitment to their Catholic faith, and a deep love for their family. Their home was filled with warmth and care, and Norb’s steady and quiet love shone through his dedication to providing for his family. He was a man who led by example, teaching his children the value of hard work, perseverance, and humility.

As a career educator, Norb influenced the lives of countless students. He began teaching in Illinois before moving to Colorado, where he worked as a fifth-grade teacher at Cherry Hills Elementary School, Holly Hills Elementary School, and Village Heights Elementary. Throughout his career, he demonstrated the importance of education, eventually earning a Master’s degree in education from the University of Colorado in 1958. He later retired from teaching and his long-time position teaching driver’s education with AAA in 1994.

Norbert and Agnes did many things together after Dad retired. They traveled widely in those retirement years, enjoying cruises and visiting countries such as Canada, England, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. They also took trips to Hawaii, Alaska, the Midwest, and New England states. They were incredible Square Dancers (even showing off their Square Dancing abilities at their 50th Wedding Anniversary Party)! They met many life-long friends through the Square Halos Club!! They were loyal Colorado Rockies Fans attending many games (and even went to one of the World Series Games the Rockies played in). They enjoyed playing golf together along with many family members. Dad played regularly in his retirement years and played his last golf game in December 2023 after turning 95!

Norb’s life was also marked by his devotion to the Catholic Church. He attended daily Mass, served as a Eucharistic Minister, Lector, Usher, money counter, marriage preparation counselor, RCIA instructor, and volunteered with the St. Vincent DePaul Society at Holy Name. He was a member of the Serra Club for 33 ½ years. He also traveled to Rome, Italy with a group from Holy Name Church in October 2015. His faith was the bedrock of his life, guiding his every action, and providing him with a sense of purpose and peace until his final days.

Norbert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Agnes (with whom he is now joyfully reunited); his parents, Merle and Gladys Brady; and his two brothers and sister in-laws Charles (Jean) Brady and Maurice (Joan) Brady; son-in-law Chauncy Anderson, and granddaughter Susan Brandin. 

He is survived by his brother: Don (Judy) Brady; seven children: Anne (Jay) Pierce, Katie Anderson, Colleen (Jerry) Stone, Linda (Rick) Malonson, Eileen (Joe) Timmermeyer, Joe (Carrie) Brady, and Ed (Cathleen) Brady; 18 grandchildren: Jennifer Shepherd, Nicholas (Sharon) Shepherd, Monica (Nick) Armbrust, Stephanie (Kevin) McClanahan, Brandon Stone, Brandi Jo Malonson, Sarah (Turner) Bahn, Jordan Stone, Jacob Timmermeyer, Melissa (David) Tisler, Eric Timmermeyer, Jordan Pierce, Mary Margaret (Waylon) Duncan, Michael (Jaime) Brady, Andrew Brady, Elizabeth Brady, Ryan Brady, and Christopher Brady; 9 great-grandchildren: Jonah Mafort, Jaden Armbrust, Riley Hunt-Bahn, Madison Armbrust, Ricky Armbrust, Holland Bahn, Mariana Tisler, Philip Tisler, and Charles Duncan: , and one great-great-grandchild: Samuel Mafort. His entire family has been blessed by his presence, guidance, and love. His family will forever cherish his example of steadfast love, humility, wit, and devotion. He was a man of quiet strength, unwavering principles, and deep affection for those closest to him. They will forever remember the wisdom, patience, and love he so freely gave. 

Please join Norbert’s family in celebration of his life. All services will be held at Holy Name Catholic Church located at 3290 W. Milan Avenue, Sheridan, CO 80110 on Thursday, October 10, 2024. The Rosary will be held at 9:45 am immediately followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:30 am. The reception will be held at the St. Agnes Center at 11:30 am followed by the Interment at Fort Logan National Cemetery at 2:00 pm. 

Norbert’s life was a testament to his strong faith, hard work, and enduring love for his family. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Emmaus Catholic Hospice at 5290 E. Yale Circle, Suite 100, Denver, CO 80222.