Norm Van Vossen grew up playing baseball on the diamond across the street from his childhood home in Summit, Illinois. He was a left-hander with a mean fastball, and he dreamed of playing in the big leagues one day.

Already in high school, he tried out with the Chicago Cubs — and he was offered a contract! But Norm wanted to add a clause that said he wouldn't have to play on Sundays. The Cubs refused, and Norm declined their offer.

Instead of playing ball, Norman joined the Army and served his country. His handsome uniform caught the eye of a young girl named Mildred, and she and Norman soon married. Though Norm's dreams of baseball diamonds were never realized, he will be the first to say his life has been blessed with true riches! Providence Rehabilitation of Palos Heights is blessed to have him as part of the Providence family.