Norbert Bufka

My interest in writing began with words and their meaning. At a young age I was excited to find a book entitled "Increase Your Word Power". It taught me new words, their meaning, and how to use them. From then on I was fascinated by using words effectively. This showed up in my school work, writing letters to the editor from an early age, composing op-ed columns for the Midland Daily News, and finally researching and writing books in retirement.

My five main interests are local history, religion, language, genealogy, and civic life. Most of my books incorporate many of these areas of interest, but each one usually is mainly one of those interests.

I was born and raised on a farm in Leelanau County Michigan. I attended the local public school, including a one room school, until I entered St. Joseph’s Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan , from which I graduated in 1961. I subsequently earned a BA in history at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, a MA in Latin from Illinois State University, and a Master of Pastoral Studies degree from Loyola University New Orleans.

I have been a high school teacher, sales representative, facilitator of a retreat and graduate studies program, and speaker on my favorite topics.

I am married and reside in Midland Michigan.