Obituary for Berniece M. Norton
Berniece M. Norton passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 20th, 2023 at the age of 99.
Berniece was born to parents Mildred (Heimark) and John Erickson on April 2nd, 1924 in St. Maries Idaho. Growing up in Idaho as a child, she enjoyed visiting her grandparents farm, hiking, and swimming. She lost her father at age 12 and helped care for her three brothers while her mother went to work. She claims this to attribute to her becoming such a great cook and baker. Berniece graduated St. Maries Highschool in 1942. She was proudly a “bell” in the St. Maries Bells, a traveling drum and bugle corps. Highschool is also where she met her husband, Jim Norton. WWII separated the two when Jim joined to serve the U.S. Navy. They were married after his return in 1946. She always encouraged an education, leading Jim to earn his pharmaceutical degree. They established their roots in Oak Harbor, WA in 1953 where they welcomed their five children, and had operated a drug store. She remained in the same beloved home the rest of her life.
Berniece was most proud of her wonderful family and worldly travels. She was a beloved community member and influential to many throughout her life. Known for her infectious smile, her ability to always laugh and have fun, and her killer banana cream pie that would bring big money to any bake sale she attended. She was an active member for many years with the Oak Harbor Methodist Church, and the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge.
Berniece is survived by her two sons, David and Dwaine, her daughter Laurie and son-in law Jerry, her four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her two children, Robert and Janice, her husband Jim, and her three brothers John, Gordon, and Gene.
Berniece’s viewing will be held at Wallin Funeral Home Tuesday, June 27th from 11am to 1:30pm followed by a graveside service at Maple Leaf Cemetery at 2pm where she will be laid to rest next to her late husband.
Berniece was born to parents Mildred (Heimark) and John Erickson on April 2nd, 1924 in St. Maries Idaho. Growing up in Idaho as a child, she enjoyed visiting her grandparents farm, hiking, and swimming. She lost her father at age 12 and helped care for her three brothers while her mother went to work. She claims this to attribute to her becoming such a great cook and baker. Berniece graduated St. Maries Highschool in 1942. She was proudly a “bell” in the St. Maries Bells, a traveling drum and bugle corps. Highschool is also where she met her husband, Jim Norton. WWII separated the two when Jim joined to serve the U.S. Navy. They were married after his return in 1946. She always encouraged an education, leading Jim to earn his pharmaceutical degree. They established their roots in Oak Harbor, WA in 1953 where they welcomed their five children, and had operated a drug store. She remained in the same beloved home the rest of her life.
Berniece was most proud of her wonderful family and worldly travels. She was a beloved community member and influential to many throughout her life. Known for her infectious smile, her ability to always laugh and have fun, and her killer banana cream pie that would bring big money to any bake sale she attended. She was an active member for many years with the Oak Harbor Methodist Church, and the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge.
Berniece is survived by her two sons, David and Dwaine, her daughter Laurie and son-in law Jerry, her four grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her two children, Robert and Janice, her husband Jim, and her three brothers John, Gordon, and Gene.
Berniece’s viewing will be held at Wallin Funeral Home Tuesday, June 27th from 11am to 1:30pm followed by a graveside service at Maple Leaf Cemetery at 2pm where she will be laid to rest next to her late husband.