Jene Edward Norton, age 90 of Grand Rapids, went gracefully into the arms of Jesus surrounded by his children, wife and grandchildren on Thursday, April 9, 2015. He was preceded in death by his wife, Beatrice; grandsons, R.J. Durham, David Driscoll and Mark DeWildt; brothers, Art and Cliff Norton. He is survived by his wife, Mary; children, Laura Norton, Suzy Norton, Debra (Rick) Lampani, Patty (Mike) Chichester, John (Linda) Norton, Denise (Pat) Johnson, Ed Norton, Louie (Shelley) Norton, Valerie (Claudette) Norton; Mary’s sons, Robert (Barbara), William (Eileen), Thomas (Aira), Charles (Lisa), David (Genevieve), John (Nancy) and Steven DeWildt; Mary’s daughter, Linda (William) Downey; sisters, Ruth (Art) Longcore, Johan Balkon; sister-in-law, Kathy Norton; 44 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Jene served in the Army during World War II, was a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus and a conductor for CSX Railroad for 40 years. Our family was so blessed to have our father, friend as an example of integrity, honesty and love. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, April 15 at 11:00 AM at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 1935 Plymouth SE, Rev. Troy Nevins, presiding. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday, April 14 from 3-5 PM and 7-9 PM with a Rosary at 7:00 PM at the O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE and visitation on Wednesday one hour prior to the service at church. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice, 2100 Raybrook SE, Suite 300, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546-5783 or the charity of one’s choice.
