Norman Lyle Black

Norman Lyle Black passed away October 1, 2015 just shy of his 90th birthday. He was a devoted husband, loving father, an artisan, a cowboy and an occasional rebel. He left us with indelible memories.

Norman was born in Lindsay, California to Lysle and Pearl Black. He grew up on his father’s ranch and attended Lindsay schools. He enlisted in the Marine Corp at the age of 18 after his graduation from high school. Norman was a member of the Marine Corp 5th division. After his initial training, he was selected to become a part of the Scouts and Raiders. He was awarded medals for his outstanding marksmanship, having been a hunter as a young boy. He was sent to Hawaii until his deployment to Iwo Jima, one of the deadliest battles of World War Two. Norman was also part of The Battle of Peleliu. He was a recipient of a Purple Heart following those battles. His pride and loyalty to the Marine Corps lasted his whole life. After his return home, he attended Cal Poly with an interest in architecture. Norman returned to Lindsay and helped develop the Lindsay Mining Company in Gabbs, Nevada. At this time he fell in love with Joan Buszek and they were married in June of 1953 in Lindsay. Their honeymoon was spent touring the 21 missions of California. The missions were a lifelong love of his. This was a reflection of his fascination with early California and the simple Rancho/Gaucho days. Norman next worked for Tulare County Planning in the planning department as an associate planner where he used his architectural and planning skills. When he left the County, he and Joan then purchased the Foster Freeze Drive-in in Hanford, California which they owned for 6 years. Returning to Visalia, they developed a business called Frigulti Black Custom Framing, Art and Gift store which they owned for 29 years. Objects that he framed showed his creative abilities, skills and craftsmanship. His work hangs in many homes and offices in Tulare, Kings and Fresno counties.

Norman was preceded in death by his son, John Robert; his parents Lysle and Pearl Black; his brother Charlie Jerome Black; his sister Mary Alice Shoemaker and nephew Gary Black.

He was most proud of his sons and grandchildren. Norman leaves his wife, Joan of 62 years and his two sons, Steven of Rancho Santa Fe, CA and Eric and his fiancé Paula of Visalia. He also leaves eleven grandchildren, five great grandchildren and a niece and nephew and their families.

Norman was a man of high ideals. He was very patriotic and was very proud to serve his country in the finest organization in the world, The United States Marines. Norman was committed to his family and friends. He was an inspiration to all who knew him. Norman represented the greatest characteristics of the Greatest Generation. Semper Fi.

A “Celebration of Life” service will be held on Friday, October 16, 2015 at 2 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 215 N. Locust Street in Visalia.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Kaweah Delta Hospice, 900 W. Oak St, Visalia, CA 93291 or Marine Memorial Scholarship Fund, 609 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 or a charity of your choice.

Tributes and condolence may be made at www.millerchapel.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Ave., Visalia, CA 93291 (559) 732-8371.