MICHIGAMME, MI – Norman W. DeRoche, age 89, of Michigamme, passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at UP Health System – Marquette.

Norman was born on August 16, 1936, in Albany, New York, to Robert and Rachel (Young) DeRoche. His family moved to several different areas during his childhood, including California, before eventually settling in Peoria, Illinois, where Norman graduated from high school.

Following high school, Norman began working for Keystone Steel, where he spent 18 years. He later joined Bob’s Marine in Peoria, where he discovered and nurtured his passion for working on engines. His love of boats soon extended beyond repairing them, as Norman became an avid boat racer during the 1970s. He competed in numerous races and proudly brought home many trophies throughout the years.

In 1976, Norman purchased Lake Ruth Resort and Marine, beginning what would become a 40-year career serving the boating community. Eventually, he purchased an old gas station down the road and transformed it into Lake Ruth Marine, where he continued to operate and grow his business. Norman was certified through Mercury and took great pride in his work, but what mattered most to him were the people he met along the way.

Norman genuinely loved his community and his customers. To him, they were never simply customers—they were friends, neighbors, and family. He was always willing to lend a hand, share his knowledge, or take the time to help someone who needed it. His kindness, generosity, and willingness to serve others left a lasting impression on countless people throughout the years. The relationships he built through Lake Ruth Marine became some of his most treasured memories, and his impact on the community reached far beyond his business.

Norman also proudly served his country as a member of the National Guard. He was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Champion and remained active in several boat racing clubs throughout the years, maintaining lifelong friendships through his love of boating and racing.

Those who knew Norman will remember him as a hardworking and caring man who believed in helping others. He had a genuine ability to make people feel welcome and valued, and he never hesitated to share his time, knowledge, or a helping hand. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the community he served so faithfully for so many years.

Norman is survived by his son, Chris (Debra) DeRoche; grandchildren, Stephen, Kayla, and Samantha; great-grandchildren, William, Charles, Rhonda, and Cooper; and his sister, Beverly Watts.

In addition to his parents, Robert and Rachel DeRoche, Norman was preceded in death by his wives, Beverly and Audrey; and his son, Stephen.

A memorial service for Norman will be held at the Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home on Thursday, August 13, 2026. Norman’s family will greet relatives and friends beginning at 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at 2:00 p.m. Fr. Jernej Sustar will preside.

Interment will take place in the Michigamme Cemetery.

A full obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends are invited to leave notes of remembrance.