Ronald B. "Ron" Norton's Obituary
Ronald Byron “Ron” Norton, age 83, passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026. He was born on March 19, 1942, in Muskegon to Byron and Helen (Kuerth) Norton. Ron graduated from Lansing Eastern High School in 1961. He went on to dedicate 37 years to the Muskegon Chronicle, where he served in a variety of roles, including Systems Leader and Superintendent of Building Maintenance, before retiring in 2003. On December 29, 1987, Ron married Jan A. Beukema in Spring Lake, and she survives him. He was affiliated with Spring Lake Presbyterian Church, a member of Masonic Lodge #140 F&AM, and belonged to the Muskegon Puddle Jumpers Car Club. Ron had a passion for antique cars and motorcycles and enjoyed camping, traveling, and construction projects. Throughout the years, he built or helped build six homes—an accomplishment that brought him great pride. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. SURVIVORS include his wife, Jan; three children, Robert (Robin) Norton, Timothy Norton, and Nancy Norton-Taylor; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; three sisters, Nancy Gish, Norma Vida, and Carroll (Dennis) Loughrige; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. A Memorial Gathering for Ron will be held from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services – Family Center, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100. MEMORIALS to the charity of your choice will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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