Norman Lowell Frost

Born on February 24, 1935, in Coffey, Missouri, to Ivan Harley and Wilma Ann (née O’Dell) Frost, Norman spent his formative years in Jameson, Missouri. There, he worked on local farms and developed the strong work ethic and practical skills that would serve him throughout his life.

After graduating from North Daviess High School, Norman moved to Kansas City, Missouri, in search of greater opportunities. It was there he met the love of his life, Donnia Marie Cockrum. The two were a perfect match and married on February 23, 1955—just one day before Norman’s 20th birthday. Together, they built a beautiful life, welcoming a son, Gregory Wayne, on December 28, 1956. A daughter, Darlene Renae, followed on December 12, 1960, completing what many would consider the quintessential American family.

Norman began his career working various jobs before finding his professional home at the Ford Motor Company’s Kansas City Assembly Plant. Over the course of 31 years, he held several roles—including lead grinder, cleanup department, and end-of-line inspector—and was even supervised at one point by his own son. Known affectionately by friends and coworkers as “Big Frosty,” Norman retired in 1991, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and camaraderie.

In retirement, Norman and Donnia fulfilled their dream of living at the Lake of the Ozarks, where they purchased a cabin that became their full-time residence. It was a place of solace, where they made lifelong friends, fished, competed in poker and shuffleboard tournaments, and hosted countless gatherings for friends and family. Their nearly 67-year marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership, ending only with Donnia’s passing on February 10, 2022.

Norman was preceded in death by his parents, Ivan and Wilma Frost of Jameson, MO; his brother Eugene of Jameson, MO; his brother, Vernon (Diane) Frost of Las Vegas, NV; his sister, Dolores Gordon (Benny) of Cameron, MO; and his granddaughter, Erica Frost of Kansas City, MO.

He is survived by his son, Greg (Carmela) Frost of Gladstone, MO; his daughter, Darlene Ott of Fort Worth, TX; his grandchildren, Greg Frost (Julie) of Kansas City, MO, Barbara Miller (Shaun) of Grand Prairie, TX, and David Ott of Joshua, TX; as well as seven great-grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the compassionate caregivers at Care Network of Gladstone and Elevate Hospice Care, whose support and dedication meant so much during Norman’s final days.

Visitation will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, October 22 followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. at White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Rd., Gladstone, MO 64119. Interment at White Chapel Cemetery.