Steven Norby

Steven Gerald Norby passed away peacefully at the Cedar Valley Hospice Home Wednesday, May 29 at the age of 71. Steve was born January 31,1953 to parents Phyllis (Wilson) and Gerald Norby. He had many health challenges in his life but conquered them all with grace and dignity. Steve graduated from Price Lab School in 1971 and earned a B.A. from Iowa State in 1975. He attended the University of Iowa College of Law and graduated with Distinction in 1979. He began his legal career at the Iowa Attorney General’s Office in the Environmental Law Division. Steve then was in private practice, Special Assistant County Attorney for three counties doing drug prosecutions, then moved to Cedar Falls where he became an Assistant County Attorney. He spent his last years before retirement in 2017, at Iowa Legal Aid. He spent many years on the Blackhawk County Democratic Committee. After retirement, Steve began volunteering at Allen Hospital, Cedar Valley Hospice, the Cedar Falls Lion’s Club, and Sons of Norway. When he wasn’t volunteering, he was reading, kayaking solo or with the Cedar Valley Paddler’s Club, biking on our beautiful trails, learning and playing pickle ball, fishing, and literally communing with nature and wildlife. Steve’s “happy place” was outside. He could also be found listening to music, attending the symphony, drinking a beer at our local brewpub with friends, and going to UNI men’s basketball games with a high school friend. Steve also enjoyed spending time with the “Octopus” group every Thursday. While Steve was attending law school, he bonded with a group of fellow students (the PUDS), who all became lifelong friends. Many years ago, Steve formed a special friendship with a child named Eric. This friendship also lasted for a lifetime. Steve was a gentle soul and passionate progressive. Society could do with more of his kind. Steve’s greatest love was for his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Barb Drews, children Niko and Gigi, brother Joel and sister Suzette, nieces and nephews, and many cousins. The family would like to thank all of the caregivers, and particularly the staff at Cedar Valley Hospice for their support and guidance. Memorials may be directed to: Cedar Valley Hospice, Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Friends of the Family in Waverly, and the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony. Memorial services will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, June 9, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls with visitation one hour prior. A reception will take place following the service.

Steven Norby

January 31, 1953 - May 29, 2024