Cecil D. Norton Sr.

He spent his early years on the family farm until he was drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II. He served in the Philippines with the Ohio 37th Infantry Division and was honorably discharged in 1944. He then joined the Army Reserve and served until 1957, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class.

Cecil loved automobiles and spent most of his life in automotive maintenance. He worked in a division of Chevrolet for several years as an area sales, service and equipment representative. A master mechanic, Cecil also owned and operated Conoco and DX service stations in St. Joseph, MO.

Cecil’s interests and talents were wide and varied. A ham radio and radio-controlled model airplane enthusiast, he also built countless radios and model airplanes. He sewed and designed quilts and loved mastering puzzles—crossword, jigsaw, Sudoku—the harder, the better.

In addition to keeping electronics in top shape, Cecil was a loyal member of the Freemason Fraternity, Brotherhood Lodge #269 in St. Joseph, MO, for over 60 years.

Cecil was preceded in death by his parents, his wife during his middle years, Mary Lee (White) Norton, his wife during his later years, Aleene T. (Morgan) Norton, brothers, Willis (Bill) and Russell (Russ), and sisters, Wilma (Jean), Wanda, and Beverly (Bev). He is survived by his brothers, Bernard (Ben) and Robert (Bob) and one sister, Bernita (Renie).

Surviving children are Lynn A. Norton of Leawood, KS, Cecil Donald (Don) Norton, Jr., of Normal, IL, Richard (Rick) Duane Norton of Concord, NC, Janet (Jan) Lee Norton of North Liberty, IA, and grandchildren, Andrea, Matthew (Matt), Nicholas (Nick) and Shelby. Cecil also had a long relationship with his wife Aleene’s children, Gary Wayne Silvey of Spring Hill, KS, Lindell Gene Silvey of Humansville, MO, Sandra (Sandy) Karen Hudson of Greenville, SC, and their children. In addition, Cecil’s memory will be in the hearts of his many friends and neighbors.

Visitation will be at the Mount Moriah & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Rd., from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Thursday, June 27, 2013. A Masonic service will follow and then a funeral service conducted by Chaplain Roger Freed. Cecil will be interred in the Mount Moriah Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be expressed at www.mtmoriah-freeman.com