Norman L. Jones

Norman L. Jones Marshall Norman L. Jones, age 66, of Marshall, died at his home on Monday, October 5, 2009. Norm was born January 17, 1943 in South Bend, IN to Loyal B. and Martha O. (Walker) Jones. He grew up in Union City and graduated from Union City High School in 1961. He served in the U.S. Army during the Viet Nam War and was a helicopter crew chief and door gunner. While a young man watching the races at Butler Speedway he was introduced to Alberta S. Bridegroom. A year later the couple was married on May 28, 1966 at the Union City United Methodist Church. The honeymoon departure was understandably delayed until after the races at Butler were concluded that weekend! He was a Heavy Equipment Operator for Michigan Department of Transportation in their Marshall garage. He was very active in the Michigan State Employees Association, serving in offices from Chief Spokesperson to Vice-President. Norm retired in 1997 after 28 years of service. He also served as the Liquor Inspector for Fredonia Township. Norm was a member of Union City United Methodist Church where he was very active earlier in life. He bowled in Marshall leagues with his wife. He liked to cut wood. Norm used to hunt near Baldwin, with the intention of relaxing not killing a deer! Norm had a lifelong passion for circle track racing with modified and super-modified cars. He owned a car with Tom Hubbard that he raced once and served as mechanic with. He was dubbed "Parnelli Jones" by friends! When he couldn't race anymore due to his health he helped his son and others with their cars. Surviving are his wife Alberta; son Albert (Karen) Jones of Marshall and daughter Martha Jones of Fenton; and 2 brothers Ferris Jones and Dennis Jones both of Union City. Friends may call at Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home and Cremation Services on Thursday 2 p.m.-4 p.m. and 6 p.m.-8 p.m. where family will be present to gather with friends and share memories. A memorial service will be held at the funeral home on Friday at 11 a.m. with a reception to follow in Kempf's Reception Hall at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to Covenant House of Michigan or Union City United Methodist Church. Assistance with memorials available at Kempf's. To sign the on line guest register and leave a personal message for the family visit www.kempffuneralhome.com.