Joseph J. Norton

On Sunday April 25th, Joseph Norton, loving husband of the late Patricia (Rice) Norton and father of five children, 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren passed away at the age of 83.

Joe was born in Marlboro MA and he was the son of the late Joseph “Happy” & Agnes (Moran) Norton.  He joined the military at the age of 17 and achieved the rank of Chief Master Sargent in the Air Force.  He retired after 25 years of service, which was then followed by 12 years of Civil Service at Hanscom Air Force Base.

Joe was a dedicated Catholic who always prioritized his love of his ever growing family. His passions included dancing, card playing, taking family vacations to Disney World and numerous cruises.  He thoroughly enjoyed time with the family singing songs at the Bull Run on Friday nights, his neighbors at the Village of Stone Ridge, and his friends at Orchard Hill Gym. But to know our dad is to know how much he loved his dogs, especially his beloved Pugs.

One of Joe’s wisest moves was to buy a camper on Lake Winnipesaukee that he and his family enjoyed for over 25 years.  Every weekend Joe would pack up all the kids, listen and sing to eight track tunes on the ride up.  Those memories we all cherish dearly.  Joe was such an avid music lover and he had such an eclectic taste including Shaggy, Pavarotti, Village People, Chris Stapleton, and Neil Young.

Besides being compassionate and welcoming, one of Joe’s most admirable traits was his generosity to charities and his family which he often helped during their time of need.  Joe was survived by his loving children Joseph & Crystal Norton of Leominster MA, Jennifer & Dave LeMay of Ocala FL, Agnes & David Robar of Moultonborough NH,  Katheen Norton & spouse Kate Sullivan of Cape Neddick ME and Margaret & Walter Robar of Littleton MA.  He was the younger brother to the late Patricia Girard of Canaan NH, the older brother to his sister Mary Mancini of Hudson MA and uncle to lots of terrific nieces and nephews.

Joe was also blessed to have 10 amazing grandchildren – Justin, Kristen, Rachel, Michael, Tricia, Ashley, AJ, Joey, Jared, and Riley. His family and love continue to grow with his wonderful great grandchildren.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, April 29th  from 5-8 PM at Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home, 50 Central St. Hudson, MA.  A Funeral Mass will be held at 9am on Friday, April 30th at St. Michael Church, 21 Manning St Hudson, MA; followed by committal at Saint Michael Cemetery on Cox St.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joe’s memory can be made to Pug Rescue of New England – www.pugrescueofnewengland.org

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