Michael H. Norton
July 5, 2012, Michael H. Norton slipped the bonds of this life and entered the home of his Heavenly
Father. Born Oct. 17, 1947, in Lansing, Mich., to James E & Mildred Norton - he was one of five
boys.
Mike joined the U. S. Marine Corps at 17, He served two tours of duty in Viet Nam as a Baker (but as he
was fond of pointing out - everyone in the Corps is a "Grunt" first and he did his duty).
One month and one day after returning from Viet Nam he met His companion in life, Mary. They met in
October, were engaged in February and married in June, 1967. He proudly celebrated his 45th wedding
Anniversary.
Michael received Jesus Christ as his Savior and was baptized into the Roman Catholic Church Sept.
15, 1973; his relationship with God became the guiding force in his life.
In 1979 Mike and Mary picked up their roots and planted their family in Winnemucca. He loved the
people and the countryside. He worked for 23 years for the Humboldt County Assessor as the real
property appraiser; this gave him the opportunity to see all of Humboldt County at one time or another.
He was a happy man.
Mike was awarded the Chamber of "Commerce Community Service Award" as their man of the year in
1994. He was recognized for his service to the veterans of Nevada by the VVA in 1996. One of his
proudest accomplishments was helping bring the "Traveling Wall" to Winnemucca. He also served on
the board of the northern Nevada "Make a Wish Foundation". He was the community Santa for many
years, giving up that activity was very hard for him; he grieved for it every Christmas. After completing
three years of school Mike became a certified lay minister in the Diocese of Reno and used his training
conducting the RCIA classes for Saint Paul's, it was his delight to introduce people to Jesus and the
church.
After retiring, he held court in the Winnemucca Inn and Global Coffee - he could seen kibitzing and
increasing his ever widening circle of friends.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers and his infant son Sean Michael. He is
survived by his wife, Mary; son Scott; daughter Bonnie Zorn; grandchildren Ashden, Jerrod, Jacob, Sean,
Jordon, McKenna and Evan. 2 great grandchildren. Many well loved In-laws and Outlaws, you know who
you are. He was a man with a loving nature and a quick wit, he will be sorely missed.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 13, 2012, at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Winnemucca. Following the Mass, a reception will be held in the Comstock Hall of the Winnemucca Convention Center. Those wishing to share memories with the family may do so at the memorial site for Mike at albertsonfuneralhome.com.
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