In Memoriam
In Memoriam Heading link
It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of Dennis Norem, MD, clinical assistant professor in the Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties.
Dr. Norem graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford in 1979. Upon completion of his residency in internal medicine at Illinois Masonic Hospital in Chicago, he returned to Rockford to practice internal medicine at what is now Mercyhealth. He then promptly joined the UICOMR faculty in 1983. He was not only involved in all aspects of medical education for medical students and residents, but he also took an active role in building alumni support for the College of Medicine Rockford and was active in alumni activities and events. He was honored with a Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2001.
“As we think about our 50 years as a College of Medicine, Dr. Norem has been a big part of our history for 46 of those years,” says Dean Alex Stagnaro-Green. “He was in the fourth class of medical students who came to Rockford and then served on the faculty for 39 years, teaching and mentoring students and serving on various campus committees. He leaves a long legacy of being a caring and skilled physician, a valued educator, an active alumnus and a friend to so many in our campus community. His contributions will continue to have impact for years to come.”
Dedicated to promoting medicine in the best possible light, Dr. Norem also was active in local and state medical societies throughout his career, most recently serving as a director of the Winnebago County Medical Society, from which he received their Physician Leadership Award, and as secretary-treasurer for the Illinois State Medical Society. He also was active in the community, serving on the Rockford Regional Health Council, as a coach and team physician for local sports teams throughout the years, including the Rockford Ice Hogs, and many other organizations.
More information about Dr. Norem and funeral services are included in his obituary.
As he requested, a fund in Dr. Norem’s name will be established to support University of Illinois College of Medicine medical students working on social determinants of health or health disparity projects. To contribute to the fund, send a check payable to UIF to Miranda Swanson, Room S200C, 1601 Parkview Ave., Rockford, IL 61107 or donate online using the last option on the form to indicate Dennis G. Norem, MD, Fund.