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Norman John Zibrat
Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | April 25, 2025
It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of Norman John Zibrat, who left this world peacefully on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the age of 96, surrounded by those who loved him.
Born on July 13, 1928, on High Street in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Norman was a man of quiet strength, deep compassion, and unwavering integrity. He lived a life marked by kindness, dedication, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life. He was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.
Norman proudly served in the United States Army, and he cherished the bonds he formed and the experiences he had during his time in service. He often enjoyed sharing stories of that chapter of his life with family and friends, always with a sense of humor and humble pride.
Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, Norman returned to school and built a long and meaningful career providing HVAC services—first to Allegheny General Hospital and later to the Veterans Association Hospital. His work reflected his ongoing commitment to helping others, particularly his fellow veterans, and he took great pride in ensuring that the facilities he maintained were comfortable, safe, and efficient.
He was married to the love of his life, Sylvia Liveratti Zibrat, for 65 wonderful years. After marrying Sylvia, he became a lifelong resident of Wilmerding, though his heart never left Pittsburgh’s North Side.
Norman was also an avid gardener, known not only for growing the best-tasting tomatoes but also for his creative touch in cultivating unique and beautiful tree species, including his cherished peach and apple trees. His yard was a reflection of his care and imagination, and he took great joy in sharing his harvest and gardening wisdom with neighbors and family alike.
He held a special place in his heart for the experiences he had growing up at the Sarah Heinz Boys and Girls Club of Pittsburgh and spending summers at Heinz Camp. One of his favorite stories to tell was the time he rode his one-speed bicycle all the way from the North Side up Route 19 to Heinz Camp—a journey that spoke to his independence, determination, and love for adventure even as a young boy.
Throughout his life, Norman exemplified hard work, wisdom, and generosity. He was a wise problem solver who could fix anything brought to him, from household repairs to more complex mechanical issues. Whether in his career, his community, or among family and friends, he was known for his dependable nature, calm presence, and willingness to lend a hand. He had a remarkable ability to make others feel valued, always ready with a listening ear, a thoughtful solution, and steady hands that knew how to make things work.
He is survived by his children: Scott D. Zibrat (Stephanie), Janet Gmiter (Keith), and Nancy Paull (Mark); his beloved grandchildren: Jaclyn (Patrick) Sork, Melanie Zibrat, Natalie Gmiter, Justin Paull, Austin Paull, and Elliott Gmiter; and his great-grandchild: Mackenzie Sork.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Sylvia Liveratti Zibrat, and his daughter, Laura (John) Kurutz.
Family and friends are welcome on Friday, April 25, from 3pm to 8pm at Alfieri Funeral Home, Inc., 201 Marguerite Avenue, Wilmerding, PA 15148, 412-824-4332.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 26, at 10am at St. Jude the Apostle Church of St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Wilmerding.
Norman will be laid to rest, with Full Military Honors, alongside his beloved wife and daughter at Restland Memorial Park in Monroeville.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Norman’s memory may be made to the Sarah Heinz House at sarahheinzhouse.com.
Norman John Zibrat will be remembered with profound love, and his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Norman Zibrat, please visit our floral store.
Originally published April 25, 2025.
Other deaths:
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