Guy was from humble beginnings, being born at the onset of The Great Depression. His father and mother attained a sixth grade and eighth grade education respectfully. One of five children, Guy learned early the importance of hard work, providing for his family, resourcefully. He began earning income as an adolescent.
In high school Guy “Norman” excelled in athletics, earning a full scholarship in football to Kirksville State Teachers College, now known now as Truman State. He set the precedence becoming the first of his family to attend college (followed by 2 more generations of his family’s Truman graduates). Moreover, he received his Undergrad and Masters Degrees. He lettered four years in football and track. As a Junior he declared to his buddies the score, from across the net, was “Love“ - Elizabeth Ann McKanna (Betty). Three months later he married that same Freshman cheerleader. The happy couple soon started a family. Passing on a chance to play for the Los Angeles Rams to pursue a career in education. He taught, coached, and mentored for many years starting in Shelbyville, MO next Butler, MO then DuQuoin, lL and finally in the Kansas City, MO public schools. His last position as Vice Principle at Lincoln Jr. High.
During the summer months, he worked painting houses, running summer playground programs, was a Boy Scout leader, a Raytown Jaycees, he taught swimming lessons, and began servicing pools. During the school year he also refereed basketball and football. This successful entrepreneur established Sun & Swim Pools, becoming one of the premier construction companies in the Midwest. As part of NSPI, APSP, and Master Pool Guild he won awards with help from his younger son designing and building unique projects (joined by 3rd generation - his grandson).
Guy faithfully attended church, helping him raise four respectful children. Remembered for strict discipline, he kept them involved in the business and busy in sports/activities. Betty and Guy built both of their custom homes. First in Kansas City, MO and then in Leawood, KS (which was featured in Publications for Design). Following their father’s footsteps, all four of Guy and Betty’s kids went on to receive collage degrees and build homes of their own.
Guy was delighted to see his children bring eleven grandchildren into his growing family to keep him active in sports and events. He greatly enjoyed hundreds of baseball games and supported other activities his children and grandchildren were involved in.
He’s survived by his wife Elizabeth (Betty), 4 children: Michael Burton, Michelle Land (her husband Gene), Scott Burton, Brenda Reid (her husband Keith), and 11 grandchildren: Tiffany Elchert, Adam Burton, Marina Blickley, Ryan Land, Sean Land, Preston Land, Deanne Land, Ryan Burton, Jennifer Burton, Meredith Reid, Brice Reid, & 16 great grandchildren: Greyson Elchert, Collin Elchert, Miles Elchert, Mina Blickley, Katelynn Blickley, Theo Blickley, Lucy Land, Georgia Land, Livie Land, Penelope Land, Annie Land, Tristan Land, Greyson Land, Havana Land, Mabry Whitney, & Laila Hack
We know Jesus is his Lord and Savior and we will see him again in Heaven. We lost a great man. - RIP Guy Norman.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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