Worcester: Robert Nordgren, 98, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2022 in the Lutheran Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Home. He leaves a daughter Susan Horgan of Westborough; a grandson, Matthew O'Connell and his wife Lori and their children Carter, Chloe and Cayla O'Connell, of Austin, Texas; and a granddaughter , Ashley Vandenberg and her husband Ian and their son Cooper Vandenberg, of Kyle, Texas. He was predeceased by a daughter Cynthia Nordgren, a brother Walter Nordgren, a sister, and his former wife Lorna (Mansfield) Nordgren.
Bob was born in Worcester, son of the late Axel and Svea (Antonsson) Nordgren. He graduated from Worcester Boy's Trade High School and proudly served his country in the US Army in WWII. He served in the 329th Infantry Regimen and part of the largest convoy to cross into Europe. He landed on Omaha Beach in Normandy and fought in DDay and Battle of the Bulge. In 2012, he received the highest Medal of Honor, given to a civilian, by the Counsel General of France, for fighting for France’s freedom. It is called the “Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur" or Knight of the legion of Honor. It was created in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte to recognize exemplary military service & is the oldest & highest honor given by France. He received the Bronze Star for heroism & the Combat Infantry Badge with wreath.
Bob lived most of his life in Shrewsbury and Auburn. He worked 37 years at Norton Company in Plant 8, making grinding wheels. He was an avid golfer, was a previous member of Greenhill and Clearview golf courses, and got 3 holes in one during his lifetime. In addition, he was a member of the VFW on Lincoln St. in Worcester, the Chester P. Tuttle post in Auburn, and of the Central Mass chapter of the Battle of the Bulge. He played on baseball & basketball teams as a young man & was an umpire for the Shrewsbury Men’s Softball League. He enjoyed playing cards & cribbage, especially with his family. He was very proud of his Swedish heritage & never went a day without his coffee & something sweet. He was a 32nd degree mason, belonging to the Matthew J. Whittall Masonic Lodge in Shrewsbury.
There are no services at this time. Burial will be held at a later date. Nordgren Memorial Chapel 300 Lincoln St. Worcester is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave an online condolence message, please click link.