Joseph Patrick Norton- loving husband, dad, grandfather and great friend to many- passed away on March 27th at the age of 84.  Joseph will be lovingly remembered by his brother Jimmy, his best friend Bill Broderick and children Michael (Carol), Patrick (Valerie), Catherine (Javier) and William (Ann Marie).  Joseph will also be fondly remembered by his six grandchildren, Julia Katie, Julia Ashley, Desi, Hunter, Brooke and Travis.  Joseph is pre-deceased by his loving wife Lillian Gloria Norton of 61 years, parents Joseph and Mary, and his siblings Josephine, Mary, Bridget and Henry.  He will also be forever remembered by his beloved nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Joseph loved his native New York, his 46 years spent in New Jersey and his new home in Boynton Beach, Florida.  Joseph entered into the Coast Guard Auxiliary in the 1950's where he was stationed in Cape May.  He worked at Western Union and was a draftsman at White Machine in Kenilworth for over 25 years until his retirement in 1999.  Joseph was an avid baseball fan and loved his Boston Red Sox.  He finally saw them win the World Series in 2004 and it was one of the happiest days in his life.  He also stayed active playing on the softball team and volleyball team in Whiting NJ well into his late 70's.

Joseph was a devout Catholic who attended Sunday mass nearly all his life.  He was a parishioner for many years at Saint Anthony's in Red Bank, NJ and Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton in Whiting, NJ.  Joseph loved his roses and vegetable garden.  Many times, people would pass by the house and compliment his rose bushes that lined the front yard.  He also won many 1st place ribbons at the Monmouth County Fair for his roses and tomatoes.  Joseph had an incredible memory and loved telling stories about baseball and history especially the Civil War.  He loved being around family and was always present at all of the reunions throughout the years.

Joseph also loved seeing his grandchildren and would always impart some wisdom on them.  The last 10 years of his life he devoted his time taking care of his wife Lillian, showing the true meaning of Love and Marriage.  His gentle soul has left us but his memory will live forever.  For those who wish to honor Joseph's memory, the family has requested donations to be made to St Jude Children's hospital.