Joe Edward Norton

Joe Edward Norton, 81 of Lenexa, Kansas passed away November 24, 2024 at Advent Health Center. A visitation will be Saturday, November 30, 2024 from 1:30-2:30 pm, with a funeral service beginning at 2:30 pm at Chapel Hill-Butler Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Alzheimer's Association.

Joe was born on December 11, 1942 in Kansas City, Kansas to Lewis Allison and Lois Marie Norton. He graduated from Washington High School in 1960 and went on to serve in the U.S. Air Force for six years. Joe was in the telecommunications business, working for AT&T, Sprint and ATS, where he retired. While working for AT&T, Joe received his Associate's Degree and was President of The Foresters.

During his time at ATS, Joe did small engine repairs and became certified as a forklift trainer. After retirement, Joe enjoyed being an Elder at his church and substitute teaching for District 500 School District, Bonner Springs School District and Piper School District, and was a swim Stroke Judge for MO-KAN and Big 8. Joe especially loved teaching at McDaniel Learning Center where his niece worked and various family members attended daycare. Additionally, he enjoyed running, playing word jumble in the Kansas City Star, camping, golf, and fishing. Joe and his wife, Gayle vacationed in Destin, Florida for over 20 years, so any day on the beach digging in the sand, was a good day. A great day for Joe was anytime he could spend with his Grandson, Jonah. These two had a special bond where Jonah knows things about Joe never shared with others.

Above all else, Joe was a devoted family man! He cherished attending his families sporting events and spending as much time with them as possible. He still kissed Gayle goodbye and told her he loved her any time he left the house, even if just walking to their mailbox.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and son, Christopher Allen Norton. Survivors include his wife of over 62 years, Gayle Francis; son, Mark Edward Norton; and grandson, Jonah Michael Norton.