Jack C. Norbeck, 79, of Coplay, died Oct. 19, 2020, in his home.

Born Dec. 8, 1940, in Greensburg, Westmoreland County, he was the son of the late Oscar E. and Ann (Teets) Norbeck.

He faithfully and honorably served his country in the U.S. Army in Germany during a peacetime era.

He was a clerk at Sears in the Whitehall Mall for many years before retiring.

He was a member of Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, Whitehall.

A published photographer and author, he founded Norbeck Research in 1978, and represented the United States as an ambassador of the International Order of Merit.

Fondly known as “The Steam General,” he authored the ”Encyclopedia of American Steam Traction Engines.”

His work was also featured in such publications as Draft Horse Journal and Engineers and Engines Magazine.

His educational library exhibit, “The Great Steam Era,” was seen and enjoyed by millions of people on all seven continents. He had a kind, gentle spirit and optimism that warmed the hearts of those who knew him.

His survivors include a brother Barry W. Norbeck (Mary) of Locust Grove, Va.; nephew Daniel W. Norbeck (Colleen) of Saugatuck, Mich.; and niece Melinda A. Norbeck of Philadelphia.

His service will be private, at the convenience of the family. There will be no public calling hours.

Expressions of sympathy may be made at heintzelmancares.com.

Arrangements were made by Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc., Schnecksville.