Norris John Layton

Norris J. Layton of Alden, Michigan, (formerly of Grand Rapids) died in Traverse City on November 6th, 2014, at Munson Hospice House surrounded by his loving daughters. Norris was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He was proceeded in death by the love of his life, Vivian, parents Lyda and John Layton, sister and brother in-law, Phyllis and Morris Johnson.
He is survived by daughters, Norian (Larry) Lenz of Charlotte, MI., Jan Morrison, Traverse City, MI., Ann Layton, Grand Rapids, MI, brother and sister in-law, Burt & Sharon Moeke, Mancelona, MI, grandsons, Mike (Dana) Johnson, FL, Clay (Nancy) Morrison, MT. Great grandchildren, Natalie, Avery, Cole and Luca Johnson, and Brody Morrison, as well as many nieces and nephews, and his 'family' of friends at Concord Assisted Living, Traverse City, MI.
He met and married Viv while both were in college, beginning what would become a joyful journey of lifelong friendship and love for 69 years. A graduate of Western Michigan University, Norris proudly served his country as a Captain in the US Army, VII Corps, 109th Anti-aircraft in WWII. He was decorated for five major battles. Following the war he became a teacher and football coach in Coopersville, MI. He ended his long and passionate career teaching at Kelloggsville High School in 1980. Additionally Norris also was a member of the National Hardwood Association, had worked in lumber sales for some years. He was an ardent downhill skier until well into his 80s, helping to establish the Michigan presence of United States Ski Association, Central Division (CUSSA) serving on the board of Directors and as a race official for many years. Norris and Viv loved to discover, traveling South to golf and play, finding new and interesting places along the way. In retirement, he became a master wood chip carver, creating a wide array of intricate and beautiful wooden boxes, and traveling to Art shows across Michigan. He was somewhat of a renaissance man; educated, witty, thoughtful, always hoping to effect the positive by provoking a laugh for extra measure. He was deeply dedicated to football for the entirety of his life having played for Kalamazoo Central HS, WMU and the US Army, yet still reciting Alfred Lord Tennyson to his caregivers as he was dying. Dad, here's to your own Crossing the Bar. Bravo on a fine and fulfilling life. Know you made a difference. The family will be celebrating Norris's life with a memorial gathering at a later date.
Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your thoughts and memories with the family.