Norbert Bertling

Norbert Bertling

North Liberty

Norbert Bertling, 80, a dedicated innovator in the towing and recovery industry and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2023, surrounded by his family at Mercy Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, due to respiratory failure. He was born on Sept. 2, 1942, in Worthington, Iowa, to Bill and Darlene Bertling.

Norbert's unwavering passion for machinery and heavy equipment, specifically towing and recovery equipment, defined his remarkable career and left an indelible impact on the industry. Raised on a farm near Worthington, he developed a deep appreciation for these tools, which shaped his life's work.

Norbert's professional journey began at Coonrod Wrecker and Crane Service in Cedar Rapids, where he worked as a mechanic, fabricator, tow truck and crane operator for 14 years. His dedication and expertise led him to Holiday Wrecker and Crane Service in Coralville, Iowa, where he contributed his skills for an additional four years.

In 1982, Norbert founded Trebron, Inc. (Norbert spelled in reverse), where he revolutionized the towing and recovery industry through his innovative designs and unparalleled workmanship. Norbert's pioneering hydraulic stiff-legs, developed from his vast experience in heavy recovery operations, became the gold standard in the industry, with other manufacturers emulating his designs.

Continuing his legacy, Norbert conceptualized and designed the Trebron heavy-duty underlift, showcasing his masterful engineering skills. He also excelled in fabricating hydraulic boom conversions and constructing customized heavy recovery units from scratch, catering to the unique needs of individual users. The quality, craftsmanship, and performance of Trebron products set an exceptional standard in the industry.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Norbert was inducted into the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum in 1996, solidifying his status as a pioneer and leader in the field.

In addition to his exceptional professional accomplishments, Norbert's commitment to the towing and recovery industry extended far beyond his innovative designs and contributions. As one of the founders of the Towing and Recovery Professionals of Iowa (T.R.P.I.) in 1983, he played a pivotal role in fostering safety, compliance, and professionalism within the field. Serving as president from 1984 to 1989, he recognized the crucial need for a state towing and recovery association and continued his unwavering dedication as an honorary board Member, offering invaluable expertise and steadfast support.

Norbert is survived by his loving wife, Virginia Bertling. He is also survived by his children Tammy (Mark) Walkner, Dennis (Bobbi McCoy) Bertling and Kathy (Kevin) Joiner, and son-in-law Sam Huber; stepchildren Chuck (Susie) Kuebrich and Kim Kuebrich-Yordi; his sisters Barbara (Bill) Catlett, Alice Taylor and Marilyn Hanson; his aunt Rosie Beadle; as well as 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brother Alan, his parents, his brother-in-law Elden Hanson, and his daughter Shelly Huber.

A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, July 12, at 10 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Oxford, Iowa. A luncheon will follow at the church hall. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at Lensing Funeral & Cremation, 605 Kirkwood Ave., Iowa City. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed toward the Norbert Bertling Memorial Fund, c/o Lensing Funeral and Cremation Service P.O. Box 167, Iowa City, IA 52244. Arrangements are by Lensing in Iowa City.

Norbert’s unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and lasting contributions to the towing and recovery industry will continue to be cherished and remembered by all whose lives he touched. Bert, as many knew him, would offer his expert advice to anyone who asked and constantly examined the challenges of recovery work to effectively make critical situations safer. May Norbert rest in eternal peace, and may his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.