Known by the correspondence chess staff at US Chess as, "Stormin' Norman" he joined the US Chess Federation in 1995. He had an Established over-the-board rating of 1601 and an Established Master Correspondence Chess Rating of 2297 after 229 games. Norm was also active in ICCF-US events (USCCC#13GroupP09, USCCC#15GroupP09, USCCC#16GroupP03) for a total of 29 results and a rating of 2191.

In addition to having a love for chess, he enjoyed opera and being active in his church. Norm was lead tenor with the "Funtastics" singing ensemble, and the State Fraternal Chairman for the Knights of Columbus.

Survivors include wife, Darlene; sons, Norm Jr. and Roland; daughters and sons-in-law, Terry Mankin-Fairchild and John Fairchild, Debe and Doug Gunsch and Jeannette Griego.

Norm actually made a visit to the USCF office in New Windsor, NY a few years ago. He not only wanted to meet the staff but volunteered to help with office tasks for a week. Norm made himself right a home and occasionally would burst out in song with an opera!