Babe NORTON
(1928-2016)
Adeline Emma (Babe) Norton passed away peacefully December 11, 2016. Babe is survived by daughter Nita (Moe), son Greg (Chris), grandchildren Kim, Sara, Debbie, Jesse, and Todd and five wonderful great-grandchildren Kya, Wil, Deirdre, Charli and Colton, as well as several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by husband Eric Norton, her parents Wesley and Adeline Rossiter, sister Ermie Iceton and two brothers Ed and Henry Rossiter.
Babe was born December 24, 1923 in Coalmont, BC and after her dad’s diagnosis of asthma aggravated by being gassed in WW1, the family moved to the drier climate in Oliver in 1934. They purchased Foxcrowle farm (Mike’s Auto) where the family worked the orchard and made extra money selling eggs and milk from Daisy the cow.
Babe worked cleaning houses and in the nearby McLean and Fitzpatrick packing house. During the WW2 war years, she moved to Vancouver for three years working in a photo shop. She returned home and was swept off her feet by handsome, returned airman Eric Norton. They married and soon began their family with the arrival of Nita in 1948. They purchased 3.5 acres on Road 2 and built their first home where son Greg was born in 1952. The family moved to the Norton family farm in 1960 after the passing of Eric’s mother. Babe resided there until her death.
Babe loved her life. She was strong-willed and very independent. She was an avid golfer into her 80’s. At the top of her golf career, she won the Club Ladies Championship twelve years in a row. In winter, her passion was playing bridge with the girls. She loved her weekly trips to the casino, always reporting winning days and of course shrugging off the other trips. She was also a passionate sports fan, watching the Canucks, curling, and much-loved BC Lions, often missing the weekly family dinners to watch a Sunday Lions game. Always a comment about that “dingheaded” coach not doing his job after a loss.
The family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the amazing staff at SO General Hospital during mom’s short stay. Special thanks to Dr. Margaret Myslek for her understanding and compassion.
The funeral will be held at the Elks Hall at 11 a.m. on Friday, December 16, 2016, with the Rev. Ray Turner officiating. Family interment to follow.
Donations gratefully accepted for BC Children’s Hospital, 4480 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3V4.
Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com
Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium, Oliver & Osoyoos.