James Richard Norton Jr.

Retired Lieutenant James “Rick” Norton passed away on Friday, July 28, 2017, at the age of 65. Rick joined the Austin Fire Department in 1971 and retired in 2000 with 28 ½ years of service. Much of his career was spent at Station 25 on B Shift. Rick’s coworkers describe him as friendly, hardworking, and playful. He loved practical jokes, and was an avid hunter.

Retired Assistant Chief Harry Evans worked with Rick when Station 25 was the northernmost AFD station. He says Rick, then a Driver, had a profound knowledge of the territory, the Truck, and everything on the Truck. Firefighter Quinn Izard recalls that as a rookie, he was expected to have a pot of coffee ready on the stove by Noon. Many years later, he came across the company journal for his first shift at Station 25. Rick had been in charge of the Engine that shift, and had noted, “Probationary Firefighter makes terrible coffee.”

A gathering to celebrate Rick's life will be held August 20 beginning at 12 p.m. at Manchaca VFW Hall Post 3377.

Manchaca VFW Hall

12921 Lowden Ln, Manchaca, TX 78652

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to:AFA Benevolent Fund. 7537 Cameron Rd. Austin, TX 78752

Arrangements under the direction of Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, Copperas Cove, Texas.