NORMAN DABISH OBITUARY
February 19, 1959 - October 21, 2005. Norman K. Dabish, co-founder of the Powerhouse Gym chain of health clubs, was called to Heaven on October 21, 2005, at the age of 46. Mr. Dabish, affectionately known as "Hulk", was an avid student of the martial arts, boxing and the fitness industry. He was a U.S. Powerlifting champion, and earned a black belt in Koei-Kan Do karate from Master Brian Frost. He and his brother, William, started the Warrior Martial Arts supply store on Woodward Avenue in Highland Park, Michigan, while the brothers were in their mid-teens. This evolved into the first Powerhouse Gym in the back room of their father's grocery store in 1975. The Powerhouse Gym spawned many bodybuilding world champions, including Mr. Olympia, Samir Bannout, Tom Platz, and Ron Love, as well as many NFL and NBA athletes. Norman's love of boxing led to a boxing gym within the gym, which quickly became "the place to train" for boxing champions Thomas "Hitman'" Hearns, Roberto Duran, Leon Spinks, Tony Tucker, and Hector Comacho. Through Norman's vision and dedication to customer service, Powerhouse Gyms grew to become the world's fastest growing gym chain, with over 300 gyms in 15 countries around the world. Norman had the unique ability to make anyone feel important, whether he was a professional athlete or a teenage boy training for the first time. I was blessed to have a brother who had my back in every situation I ever faced. He will be forever missed and always remembered. Norman Dabish's love for physical fitness was only surpassed by his love for his wife, Nouha, and sons, Peter and Johnny. His zest for life was infectious, and he always had a helping hand for those less fortunate, which contributed to his larger than life image. Norman, the youngest son of Karim and Dalaly Dabish, is survived by his wife, Nouha, sons Peter and Johnny, mother Dalaly, brother William, sister Krystal, and nephews J.R., Henry, Victor, Michael, and Frankie. Visitation will be held at the Sawyer Funeral Home, 2125 West Twelve Mile Rd., Berkley, MI 48072, on Saturday and Sunday, 2:00 pm-9:00 p.m. The funeral will be held at the Mother of God Catholic Church, 25585 Berg Rd., Southfield, MI 48034 on Monday, October 24, at 10:00 a.m.
