Peter Norton

Peter B. Norton, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness.

Born on September 14, 1956, in Fremont, OH, to the late Francis E. and Dolores Norton, Pete will be remembered not only for his remarkable character but also for his many contributions to his community.

A proud graduate of Fremont St. Joseph High School, class of 1974, Pete was known for his tenacity on the wrestling team. Shortly after, he married the love of his life, Brenda Kirwen, on July 30, 1975. Together, they created a beautiful life, celebrating nearly 50 years of cherished memories before his passing.

Pete dedicated 36 years of his life to the Paul E. Spieldenner Co. as a ceramic tile specialist, and later founded his own company, Floor Dimensions. His work ethic reflected his commitment not just to his trade, but also to the community he loved, which he served faithfully as a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church in Gibsonburg where he was a lector for 35 years. He also volunteered his time at many church functions and took great pride in ensuring the success of the yearly chicken barbecue as its "Head Traffic Controller."

An active contributor to the community, Pete was also a Cub Scout pack leader, fostering a love of adventure and learning in the lives of many, including his son, Zachary. He gave blood on a regular basis until he became ill. His environmental passion was evident in his role on the Gibsonburg Tree Commission, where he helped plant countless trees in the village. His interest in trees was evident on the family property, where he designed  "The Norton Woods" in 1999. Pete and his family and friends planted 2,000 tree seedlings on four acres of land.

Beyond his community service, Pete was a man of many interests. His love for reading and astronomy inspired him to build his own telescope in memory of the astronauts who tragically lost their lives on the Challenger. He captured breathtaking photographs of the universe, showcasing his keen eye for detail. His interest continued as he became the "team photographer" for his daughter Laura's high school basketball games, Pete made sure to capture the special moments. His talents extended to videography, producing the nostalgic "Norton Folies" and "Kirwen Follies," which served to document the shared joy of family gatherings.

A lover of the outdoors, Pete cherished camping trips with his family. On one hiking excursion he hiked from the top to the bottom of the Grand Canyon solo and enjoyed many other outdoor adventures, especially with his family. With his warm sense of humor, genuine kindness, and approachable nature, Pete enriched the lives of everyone around him, ensuring that no one ever felt excluded.

Surviving is his wife Brenda Norton of Gibsonburg; daughter Laura (Mike) Breitigan of Bowling Green; son Zachary Norton of Risingsun; former daughter-in-law Kim Norton; granddaughter Ella Kurpenski; brothers Bruce (Barb) of Reynoldsburg; OH; Martin Norton of Bellemont, AZ; Jerry (Vanessa) Norton of Centerburg, OH; Frank (Kim) Norton, Brooktondale, NY; sisters Pat Rawls of Foster, VA; Rose Slosser of Dublin, OH; Cathy Studer of Lagrange, OH; Kirwen-in-laws: Don (Jan), Tom (Deb), Pat (Diana), Bill(Connie), Steve (Kathy), Warren (Sherri), Andy, Phil (Julie), Greg (Karen), Julie (Tab) Bickford. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Michael, Maria, Greg and Joyce Merrill; in-laws Don and Marcella Kirwen; brothers in law Paul Rawls, Denny Studer and Jim Merrill.

Thank you to Heartland Hospice for the care they gave Pete."We are glad he is now in heaven, where he worked his whole life to be with our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ."

Visitation will take place on Sunday, April 27, from 1-5PM at Herman-Veh Funeral Home & Crematory, 319 W. Madison Street, Gibsonburg, OH. Rosary services will begin at the funeral home at 5PM. A Funeral Mass will begin at 10:30AM on Monday at Saint Michael Catholic Church, Gibsonburg. Msgr. Tad Oxley will officiate. Private burial will take place at St.Michael & St. Lawrence Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Saint Michael Catholic Church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.hermanfh.com