Norman Dale McKinstrey, age 85, of Lena, IL passed away after a battle with a brief illness on Monday, March 31, 2025. He was born on June 17, 1939, in Lena, IL to Leo and Sylvia (Trost) McKinstrey.  He attended college for a couple years studying engineering until he joined the workforce as a mechanical and project engineer. Throughout his career he worked for Ingersoll, Forte, Publishers Equipment, and Barns as a project engineer. He was always very proud of the career he had. He enjoyed golfing, bowling and racing at the Freeport Raceway Park. He was a member of the Baltic Lodge in Rockford. Norman was a wonderful handyman and was constantly fixing things around his house and helping others.

He is survived by his wife Joan McKinstrey of Machesney Park, IL, 2 children, Michele (Ron) Vick of Warren, IL and Michael McKinstrey of Lena, IL; 4 grandchildren, Kaden McKinstrey, Cody McKinstrey, Ryan (Carrie) Vick and Rachel (Otman) Elaroussi; 5 great grandchildren; 1 sister, Shirley (Bob) Hodgson of Gratiot, Wi; and several nieces and nephews.

Norman is preceded in death by his parents and brother Don McKinstrey.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Evangelical Free Church of Lena with a visitation from 10:00am until time of service.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

A memorial has been established in his memory.