Gary W. Norton, 65, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2010 in his home. He was 65.

He was born March 3, 1945. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Anne Norton; daughter Julianna (husband Damian); son Joe (wife Stephanie); grandchildren Nicholas, Lillianna, Joseph, Isabela and Eleanna; sisters Barbra Brogan of Orchard Park, New York and Kim Hilgenkamp of Chicago; and mother-in-law Ruth Osann of Dune Acres.

Preceding him in death were his sister, Kay Staruch of Blasdell, N.Y.; father, William Joseph Norton of Orchard Park, N.Y.; mother, Evelyn Taylor of Englewood, Fla.; and father-in-law Edward Osann of Dune Acres.

Gary grew up in Blasdell and graduated from Syracuse University. He began working as an English teacher in Manlius, N.Y. He changed career paths and began working for companies like Belden Wire & Cable, Cooper, Echlin, Ristance, and Standard Motor Products. beginning in the sales field and working his way up the ladder to Vice President. It was during this time that he met many loving and lifelong friends who cherished him and will miss him greatly.

He enjoyed going to the beach and fishing with friends, his son and grandchildren. He looked forward to the hunting season with his buddies every year at his cabin in upstate New York. He was the quintessential family man and best friend, always looking out for those close to him. He was a mentor and someone everyone looked up to. He always said, “If you leave this world with family and a handful of friends you’ve done pretty darn good.” Gary had all of that and more. He will be greatly missed by all.

A memorial and celebration of his life will be held at Ogden Dunes Community Church in Portage on Saturday, Nov. 20, at noon CST and in the spring at his cabin in Bliss, N.Y. in 2011.

A donation in Gary’s name can be made to any of the following organizations: Center for Hospice, Attn. Deborah Mayfield, 4220 Edison Lakes Parkway, Mishawaka, IN 46545; Bliss Fire Department, 7764 Cadwell Road, Bliss, NY 14024; Save the Dunes Council, 444 Barker Rd., Michigan City, IN 46360.

Arrangements are under the direction of White-Love Funeral Home, 525 South 2nd St., Chesterton. For more information, call 926-1309.