George M. Norton

George M. Norton of Austintown passed away early Thursday morning at Forum Health Northside Medical Center after suffering a stroke. George was an Insurance Adjuster for Century Surety Co. in Westerville for the past three years. George was born August 20, 1946 in Eugene, OR a son of the late Dale and Marion (Carlisle) Norton. George was proud of his many accomplishments including being a 32nd Degree Mason Scottish Rite and York Rite of the Argus Lodge in Canfield. He was a founding and 30 year member of Youngstown Rifle and Pistol Club in North Jackson. As an avid competitive shooter he was a charter life member of IDPA and enjoyed being a safety officer for the last six years at the national competition. George served in the United States Army as a Special Forces Captain during the Vietnam Conflict. He was a member of numerous organizations including the VFW Post 301 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles 3298 where he was past president of both clubs. George was a former women’s soccer coach at Fitch High School and a licensed private pilot. He spent his life serving and tutoring others. George is survived by his wife Mary Beth McCleery-Norton, whom he married October 11, 2003. He had three children with his late wife Judith Norton: Shannon L. (Chad) Norton of Dayton, Michael S. Norton of Canfield, and Steven C. Norton of Sarasota, FL; one granddaughter Camryn R. Norton of Austintown; and two brothers Dale Norton of Georgia and Terry Norton of South Carolina. George was a devoted husband, loving father and loyal friend. Friends may call from 2-6 PM Sunday at the Lane Funeral Home Austintown Chapel where are prayer service will be held 11:15 AM Monday. There will be a Masonic service at 5:45 Sunday evening at the funeral home. A mass of Christian Burial will be held at noon Monday at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Youngstown.