Norm Nuismer

At the age of 94, after a long, rich, and blessed life, Norm Nuismer entered his eternal rest to join his wife, Clara, whose departed this earth on September 6, 2022.

A man of deep faith, steadfast patriotism, and unwavering devotion to the people he loved, he leaves behind a legacy rooted in service, kindness, and family.

A proud Hope College attendee, he discovered early his remarkable gift for music. He performed in a college quartet, sharing his voice in both live and radio performances, and later sang with the Hope College Choir and the Navy Academy Choir in Memphis, Tennessee. It was during his naval service there that he met the love of his life, Clara. They were blessed with 67 years of marriage before her passing on September 6, 2022. His love of singing continued throughout his life, most especially in the church choir where he offered not only faithful participation but many heartfelt solo performances.

Gifted both athletically and artistically, he pitched and bowled left-handed, yet batted and golfed right-handed—a reflection of his natural talent and spirited versatility. He was never happier than when cheering from the stands at Sandy and Beth’s basketball games, particularly at Vanderbilt baseball games, watching his son Jack take the mound. A devoted sports fan, he was also an original season-ticket holder for the Tennessee Titans, holding a cherished front-row seat for many years.

His professional life began in the building industry, eventually leading him to a long and successful career in sales, where he rose to become one of the top ten salesmen of his product in the nation. Away from work, he and Clara treasured their weekends at their beloved lake house on Center Hill Lake, where countless friendships were made and memories shaped—his true happy place.

Deeply patriotic, he loved his country and served it not only in the Navy but also through decades of dedicated involvement in the American Legion. He held numerous leadership roles, from district and regional commander to service on national committees, always leading with humility, commitment, and pride.

In his later years, Norm made his home at The Lodge at Natchez Trace, where he was surrounded by care, companionship, and peace.

He is survived by his three children, Sandy Binkley (Mike), Jack Nuismer (Carol), and Beth McCord (Keith), seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren—each of whom carries forward a piece of his gentle spirit, steady example, and boundless love. To his family and friends, he was a source of strength, humor, and warmth, always ready with a helping hand or a word of encouragement.

He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. Though we grieve deeply, we do so with hope. Our dad has simply gone ahead of us, and we trust in the promise that we will see him again in the glory of our King. His life was a testament to devotion—faith in God, love of family, loyalty to country, and service to neighbor. His legacy lives on in the generations who follow him, and in the countless lives he touched with his kindness, humility, and grace.

May his memory be a blessing.

Funeral arrangements will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, with visitation starting at 12:00pm. Funeral services will follow at 1:30pm, with interment immediately after. All services will be held at Harpeth Hills Funeral Home, 9090 Highway 100, Nashville TN 37221.

Donations may be made to The American Legion Post 5. Located at 320 6th Avenue N. 7th Floor, Nashville, Tn 37219