In Memory of Larry Norton

We were among the many people to be touched by Lawrence’s gentle kindness. To be sure, he was skillful in helping Haitians learn the electrical and plumbing trades. What made him particularly unique was his patience and calmness. He treated people with deep respect. That’s who Larry was. 

And you could count on him to jump in and help out no matter what the task. One of his students, Fritzner Saintvilus, a longtime neighbor of ours got married at our guesthouse on one of Larry’s visits. Larry integrated into the team that served food to over 100 guests. He was great! 

We also appreciated his love for good food. He so enjoyed my (Merline’s) cuisine at the guesthouse. He also loved my hot sauce and encouraged me to go commercial with it. We loved Larry and so enjoyed staying in touch with him over the years. We’re profoundly grateful for Larry and Linda’s ongoing generous investment in education of Haitians. 

Rest in peace, dear friend. 

Love, 

Merline, John and Alex for Haiti Partners

Larry’s obituary:

Lawrence (Larry) Norton of Brentwood/Knightsen, California went to be with his Lord on May 18, 2019 at the age of 65 due to sudden cardiac death. Lawrence was preceded in death by his father, Dean R. Norton and his father-in-law, Don L. Hartzell.

His is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda L. Norton, his sons, Joshua D. Norton and Gabriel A. Norton, his mother, Katherine E. Norton, his mother-in-law, Pearl E. Hartzell, his sister, Ellen (Norton/Recob) Krege, two nieces, Suzanne M. McReynolds and Sue Ellen Recob, two nephews, Justin E. McReynolds and Beau D. Recob and his dog Archie.

Lawrence served in the U.S. Navy from 1972 until 1975 and was a graduate of St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California. He was licensed in water treatment and as a contractor. He worked for many years as an electrician and most recent as an instructor for an electrical trainee/apprenticeship program. He was passionate about education and was dedicated to helping his students build a brighter future by realizing their fullest potential.

In his off-work hours, Lawrence loved spending time with his family, puttering around the home place, being on the river or bay sailing, walking with his wife and playing with their dog. He volunteered regularly with Extollo International to provide electrical training in Haiti, which is where he met John and Merline Engle of Haiti Partners, an organization that is dedicated to helping Haitians change Haiti through education, which became another of his passions. Donations in his memory can be made at www.extollointernational.org and www.haitipartners.org.

Lawrence was cremated, and his ashes will be scattered. A private memorial was held on May 27, 2019 in celebration of his life and his love.