Emma Grace Norton

Em was born in 1929 in Prosser, Washington, the youngest of three children. As a high school cheerleader in Prosser she rooted vigorously against cross-valley rival Grandview High, where her boyfriend Richard Norton played both football and a mean trumpet. They broke up as high school seniors, but miraculously reunited eight years later and were married for nearly 60 years until Dick’s death in 2015.

After their wedding in 1955 the couple settled in the Manette area of Bremerton. Richard was a music teacher in the Bremerton School District; Em was a wonderful mother to three children, an excellent cook, and a gracious hostess. Their Manette home was filled with laughter, music, and a great deal of socializing with fellow teachers, students, church friends, and family relatives.

At age 38 Emma decided it was time for a career of her own and enrolled in college. With two children still at home and with a great deal of grit and determination, she graduated from Seattle Pacific University four years later. She was an elementary school teacher in Bremerton for 18 years. She considered her college time and teaching career as one of the greatest accomplishments of her life.

After retirement, Dick and Emma traveled throughout the U.S. and Europe. Emma was especially fond of Norway, where she visited the many relatives around her ancestral home in Trysil. She stayed active at Manette Community Church, volunteered at Harrison Memorial Hospital, read, wrote, worked in her garden, and stitched through the intricacies of Norwegian hardanger.

Emma was happiest, however, when she was with her family. Every birthday and holiday were celebrated together. Emma loved good food, interesting conversations, and the joy of watching her grandchildren grow up. Emma’s children remember her as a kind and loving mother. She was always ready with sound wisdom and patience as she helped us tackle life’s big problems.

After Richard’s death, Emma moved to Crista Shores in Silverdale. She reveled in her beautiful waterfront apartment, as she had never lived on her own before. She enjoyed the many friends and activities that were part of the Crista Shores community. With her health failing in early 2018, Em moved to Seattle to be closer to her daughter. She passed away under Hospice care at the Pearly Jones Adult Family Home on Magnolia hill. Her caregivers were sad to see her go. They appreciated the sweet smile she maintained up until the very end of her life.

Emma is survived by her three children. Son Ted lives in Mesquite, Texas with his wife Susan. Son Terry lives in Spokane with his wife Holly. Daughter Margaret lives in Seattle with her husband Steven. Her three grandchildren – Caitlin, Chris, and Miranda – also survive her.

At Emma’s request, no public service will be held. Memories of Emma can be posted on the Butterworth website by clicking on the "Show Your Support" and then "Share a Memory" buttons.

Rest in peace, Emma Grace. You were dearly loved and will be deeply missed.