Republic – O. Norm Avis, age 74 of 773 Kloman Ave., Republic passed away peacefully on Saturday Sept. 7, 2013 at his home in Republic. Norm was born January 26, 1939 in Lincoln Park, MI the son of the late Orville W. and Hazel D. (Workman) Avis. He grew up in Allen Park and was a graduate of the Allen Park High School. Norm's working career began with General Motors where he worked for nearly 10 years. He moved on in the plumbing trade, working on construction projects until he became a plumber for the Michigan Dept. of Corrections at the Jackson State Prison. He moved to Republic in 1994, and owned and operated Norm's Blackrail Bar for the past 19 years. Norm loved to collect and shoot guns and was a member of the Republic Rabbit Club. He enjoyed the camaraderie of friends at the bar and spending his free time at camp. Survivors include his wife of 51 years Linda Avis of Republic, 3 children – Elizabeth (Keith) Jones of Tempe, AZ, Patrick Avis of Republic and Tracy Avis of Canton, GA, 4 grandchildren – Britney and Alexa Herman & Andrew and Ryan Jones. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Faye Pietz. The family will greet relatives and friends from 2 until 4pm on Friday, September 13, 2013 at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home. A Time of Remembrance will follow at 4:00pm at Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home with a time of food and refreshments following the services at Norm's Blackrail Bar in Republic. The funeral service recording, when it becomes available, can be heard by clicking here.