Norma J. Hotz Rinderer

Norma J. Hotz Rinderer, 89, of Highland, IL, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Cedarhurst of Highland surrounded by her family.

She was born on January 13, 1937, in Highland, IL, to Milford and Guyneth (nee Ellis) Schoeck.

Norma was born in Highland, Illinois, and grew up on her family’s farm in St. Jacob. She graduated from St. Jacob High School and later made her home in Highland, the community she proudly called home for the rest of her life

Norma had a deep love for Highland and was dedicated to giving back through both her time and generosity. Her career in sales began when she and her husband purchased Hugs Men and Boys Wear on the town square, in the building now occupied by the business her son Lee opened, Lee’s Fine Jewelry. She later spent 34 years with Ford Hotel Supply, a career she was incredibly proud of. Norma cherished the Ford family and valued the many friendships she built with customers throughout the region.

A passionate community volunteer, Norma was a proud member of the Junior Women’s Club (charter member), Khoury League Softball (First President), Chamber of Commerce, Civic Women’s Club, Jaycees, PTA Member, Highland’s Downtown Merchants Association and the Historical Society. She was instrumental in coordination with Mr. Spindler to open and dedicate Spindler Park. Her dedication to service helped make a lasting impact on the Highland community.

In recognition of her many contributions, Norma received the Jaycees’ 1st Outstanding Female Citizen of the Year Award in 1977 and was named Outstanding Citizen in 1978.

Her faith was an important part of her life. Norma loved her church and served on the board of the Evangelical Church Education Program. She was also a lead teacher in the ABC program, where she shared her love of learning with young children.

Norma found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed bowling, playing the piano, and singing whenever she had the chance. She loved gathering with friends at Cedarhurst for games of Rummikub (2022 Rummikub Champion with Rita & Joan) and Dominoes. Prior to Cedarhurst she spent countless weekends playing pinochle with Lee, Angie, Boyd, Amy, and Art. Ballroom dancing was one of Norma’s greatest passions. Whether dancing with Dallas or Art or enjoying an evening with friends, she loved the music, the movement, and the happiness it brought to her life.

Above all, Norma treasured her family. She loved helping, supporting, and spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. When asked about her favorite memories, she would often share the special mother-son dance with Marshall at his wedding; welcoming Boyd home from overseas deployments and celebrating Matthew’s return from military service; watching Adam and Lexi carry on Lee’s legacy; having the opportunity to open the doors to visitors post COVID at Cedarhurst with Molly being the Executive Director; and the countless cherished moments spent with her beloved great-grandchildren.

Norma’s life was defined by service, faith, friendship, and family. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to others left a lasting mark on the community she loved and on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Milford and Guyneth Schoeck; first husband, Henry J. Rinderer; second husband, Dallas J. Hotz; son, Lee Rinderer; brother-in-law, Gary Beeler; and dancing partner, Art Hassebrock.

Norma is survived by her son, Boyd (Amy) Rinderer; daughter-in-law, Angie Rinderer; grandchildren, Marshall (Mallory) Rinderer, Camilia (Brandon) Schawel, Matthew (Camille) Rinderer, Molly Rinderer, Jase Kennett, Adam Rinderer, and Lexi Rinderer; great grandchildren, Charlotte Rinderer, Henry Rinderer, Juniper Schawel, Violet Schawel, and Norma Grace Rinderer; sister, Lois Beeler; one niece and several nephews.

Memorial donations can be made to Spindler Park (through HACF), Hard Road Theatre Productions Scholarship Fund (through HACF), or to Evangelical United Church of Christ in Highland.

Visitation: Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 8:00 to 10:00 am, at Evangelical United Church of Christ, Highland, IL

Funeral Service: Saturday, June 27, 2026, 10:00 am, at Evangelical United Church of Christ, Highland, IL

Clergy: Pastor Bill Kapp

Interment: Highland City Cemetery

Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL