Joel W. Norton, my father, passed away at his home on Thursday morning after a long battle with a prolonged illness.My dad was born and raised in southern Utah. He spent time farming and loved the outdoors. He attended college at BYU for one year, then served a mission in San Diego, speaking Spanish. He later tried to teach the language to his daughters, but that didn't go over too well.
After his mission, he entered the ROTC program at Utah State, but decided that wasn't quite for him. He married my mom in 1963, and together they had six children, four of whom they raised to adulthood. They later divorced, and Dad married Barbara. They've been very happy together for the last sixteen years.
My dad was a very important part of my life. After my parents' divorce, he and I were able to establish a relationship like we hadn't before.
When I got married, my dad gave Matt and me some wonderful advice about developing true charity for our spouse and to keep that compassion and concern for each other at the forefront of our marriage.
He was a devoted grandfather, a caring father, and he will be sorely missed.
I love you, Dad.
13 comments:
I'm so sorry for your loss. I can't imagine the pain you're going through right now. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers.
Just a big hug, I can tell how much you loved him.
Thanks, ladies. I appreciate it.
Tristi, my friend, you already know how I feel. You've been in my thoughts and prayers so much this week. Just know you are loved. (((hugs)))
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Beautiful tribute, Tristi. I'm so glad that you have so many memories with your dad. Mine passed when I was 7, and that's always been something I felt missing. You're truly blessed. :)
So sorry about your dad. He sounds like a wonderful person. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
My deepest condolences to you and your family, Tristi. It's never easy to lose someone so paramount and loved in your life. But he's with God now and Heaven is a happy place. He's walking in the arms of love now, safe, welcomed, in joy.
*hugs*
What a handsome man your father was. Take care dear friend.
My condolences for your loss. It's just never easy to lose a loved one.
{Hugs to you, Tristi}
So sorry, Tristi. Blessings on you and your family.
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