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Dennis Norton Obituary
YARMOUTH -- Dennis Patrick Norton, 53, of Yarmouth, gently passed in his home surrounded by his loving family on March 28, 2012.
He was born on Aug. 2, 1958, in Portland, the son of Barbara (Nielsen) and Edward Norton. He was educated at Holy Cross Elementary School and graduated from South Portland High School, Class of 1976. He attended Maine Maritime Academy before enlisting in the U.S. Navy.
After his enlistment he worked as a commercial fisherman and then went on to work at Hannaford Bros. in the Distribution Center where he became active in the labor movement. He was elected President of the local union for 10 years before moving on to his most current position as Union Business Agent for UFCW Local 1445 based in Dedham, Mass.
Dennis loved working for workers rights and the fair treatment of the working class. To Dennis, the Union was a community of people working together for the benefit of everyone.
He was President of the Southern Maine Labor Council, Maine AFL-CIO executive board, United Way of Greater Portland Union Liaison and was active in various other community and church organizations.
On Sept. 22, 1985, he and Linda Milton of Yarmouth were married and together they have five wonderful children. His family was everything to him and what he was most proud of.
Dennis will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, loyalty and compassion. What would Dennis tell the rest of the world? 'Keep the dream alive and go with your heart and the rest will follow.'
He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Linda Norton of
Dennis P. Norton
Lindquist Funeral Home
Funeral Home & Cremation Service
846-4011
Yarmouth; his children, Jason Stuart and his wife Darby of Hampden, Jesse Norton of South Portland, Stephen Stuart of Portland, Cody Norton of Yarmouth and Erin Norton of Yarmouth; grandsons, Kalvin Costa-Vogel and Brady Stuart of Hampden; his siblings, Kevin Norton and his companion Mary Rust of Lexington, Ky., Brian Norton and his wife Brenda of Dandridge, Tenn., Karen LeGage and her husband David of South Portland; and many aunts, uncles; nieces and nephews. Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Barbra Norton of South Portland.
Visiting hours will be on Sunday, April 1, from 1 to 4 p.m., at Lindquist Funeral Home, One Mayberry Lane, Yarmouth. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, April 2, at 11 a.m., at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 326 Main St., Yarmouth. Burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Smith Street, Yarmouth with a reception after in the church hall. Please visit www.lindquistfuneralhome.com to view a video collage of Dennis' life and to share your condolences, memories and tributes with his family.
In light of Erin's involvement as captain of the running team 'Dennis' Menaces,' a fundraiser at Lasell College for the American Cancer Society, the family would prefer donations be made
in Dennis' memory to:
American Cancer Society Relay For Life, NE Division, Inc.
1 Bowdoin Mill Island, Suite 300 Topsham, Maine 04086
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dennis Norton
Linda Norton
April 29, 2012
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998
Douglas Munsey
April 7, 2012
Dear Linda,
I only learned of Dennis' passing yesterday from my Mom. I am so sorry for your loss. He was one of the gentlest men I grew up with, and what a sense of humor. I just keep remembering his gregarious laugh and those mischievous eyes of his. I'm sure you knew what a great athlete he was growing up. But Dennis was so humble he probably didn't make a big deal of it.
I so enjoyed looking at the photos. You two did everything under the sun. There are some great happy memories that you will treasure. Abraham Lincoln once said " it's not the years in the life that matter but the life in the years". That thought was going through my head as I looked at the photo gallery and how much Dennis fit into this time we have on earth. May God comfort you and your children in this time of mourning and give you the peace that only comes from the knowledge that Dennis is in the Fathers care now.
In His Love,
Doug Munsey
Jessica McRoy
April 4, 2012
Ever ready smile and jolly laugh. He was one of a kind that made life better for knowing him. My heartfelt sympathies for the huge gap he has left behind. Much love.
Reva Kempf
April 4, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers our with you. .
April 4, 2012
Linda and family...we only learned today of Dennis's illness and his passing. We are so sorry we missed the service-we have been out of town for 12 days. We send our love and prayers to you all. We have such tremendous "Pownal" memories with you all. It was a wonderful time then at that tiny school. Hold close to god and your family.......they are what will hold you together. Love, Mona & Dennis Dyer
Theresa, Julia & Ann-Marie Higgins
April 3, 2012
Our deepest sympathy to Linda and the Norton family. You all were a special part of our lives from our childhood years at Holy Cross to our teens at Mahoney and SPHS. You all are in our thoughts at this sad time.
Timothy Norton
April 2, 2012
The large crowd at the wake was no surprise. Though we left Maine many years ago, I have great memories of Dennis and family as kids and the legacy Dennis left will live forever. Condolences from the Rhode Island Nortons and God bless all of you.
Sara Lopes
April 2, 2012
It's hard to say goodbye to such a wonderful person.. I met Dennis 2 years ago when I started at the local. He always had a smile an great stories for us. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts an prayers are with you an your family..
Hermanno Ndenguino
April 2, 2012
Hey Erin, I'm very sorry for your loss. You being amongst us and being who you are are your dad (and your mum) gifts to the world. So through you heart, your thoughts and your actions your dad is and will always be with you. And I'm glad you brought him, somehow, here in SA. My condolences my friend.
Mike Castaneda
April 2, 2012
It's never a good thing to learn of a great man passing early. I do know that Dennis's devotion to the working class is second to none. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Robin Newton
April 1, 2012
I have been remembering some many things from childhood. you and all the other guys that used to come around. you, bobbie, and danny where a huge part of my growing up years. I will miss you. you are in NO more pain. we are all blessed to have be a small part of of your life.
peter fleming
April 1, 2012
i new dennis thu my union at work thank for the hard work you gave us
peter fleming
Jim, Holly, Adriana and Evan Milton
April 1, 2012
May the sun always shine on your window pane,
May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain,
May the hand of a friend always be near you,
May God fill your heart with gladness,
To cheer you,
Erin Go Bragh (Irish Forever)
Janice Roberts
April 1, 2012
Dennis always had a great smile, but it grew three times wider the day he married you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your kids. You were his greatest joy. We will always miss him. Our hearts are broken. Always Steve and Janice...xo
Day of Caring 2001
Vinny O'Malley
March 31, 2012
Linda,Cody and the entire Norton family thank you so much for sharing so much of Dennis with us. His ceaseless sharing of his time, his treasure and talents will not be forgotten. He was the bedrock of your family and I grieve with you. Your loss is great and workers and their families all over New England have lost a great champion. I am so proud to be able to call Dennis my friend. With my deepest condolences.
Vinny O'Malley & Family
Darby Stuart
March 31, 2012
I met Dennis 5 years ago and was lucky enough to marry into his wonderful family. Dennis instilled so many good qualities into my husband Jason, and for those I will be forever thankful. There was always a sense of calm with Dennis around and I loved his smile and great sense of humor. Dennis your grandson will always be reminded what a wonderful man his 'Papa' was.
Claudia Stoddard
March 31, 2012
Sending my heartfelt condolences to you Linda and your children. My heart aches with sadness for you all. Dennis was such a huge positive influence on the lives of so many and most importantly my nephews Jason & Stephen. My love to you all during this most difficult time.
Doris & Bob LaBrecque
March 31, 2012
To Linda & family. Please accept our condolences on your loss. Dennis was a tireless advocate for worker's rights. He was also a very good friend who was always there ready to help in anyway possible. Above all, he was the ultimate family man who really appreciated his family. You will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
March 31, 2012
Linda & family, our thoughts, prayers & heartfelt sympathy is with you during this difficult time.
The Jacques Family
March 31, 2012
Dear Linda and Your Beautiful Family, My Heartful Thoughts are with you all, Memories of Dennis stir in my Heart. I stop and think of him and Smile... For, I shared many smiles, laughter and such kindness with him. Debbie and I also golfed with Dennis and Dean, what a memorable day... He was a Treasure as a Friend to all who knew him and we are Blessed. We are all with you Linda in spirit. God Bless you all. Tricia Kenney-Hopkins P.S. Thank you Linda for sharing the pictures, xoxo..
Bill Mahoney
March 31, 2012
Dennis was a classmate, teammate and friend through Mahoney and SPHS. Dennis has a universal appeal about him that made him well liked across all the different groups and cliques that comprise junior high and high school. He was a leader on the field and it is no supirise to learn that he remained a leader throughout his life. I wish the very best for his family and the many close friends and collegues he leaves behind.
Cori Ann (Roberts) Perry
March 31, 2012
My father loves you, a best friend since childhood. Captains of the football team. I remember you as a kid, you had such a great smile and a laugh that would light up a room. My father, Uncle Bobby, Dan will miss you always....remembering the good times, that is the true gift. God bless
Tim and Cheryl Mardin
March 31, 2012
I remember growing up with Dennis from Holy Cross to Mahoney and onto SPHS. We played basketball and baseball together and he was always a leader and jokester! He had a great smile and tremendous sense of humor. I lost track of Dennis over the years, but I see from the photo gallery that he had a full life surrounded by people who loved him. You are in thoughts and prayers,
Mark Govoni
March 31, 2012
"Oh, Norton, pal o' mine." As I'm sure is the case for all, there just wasn't enough time to be here with you. With that big smile up front, I still knew you would always have my back. You own a place in my heart, Brother. See you on the other side.
kelli goodrow
March 30, 2012
I will always smile when I think of you. We will miss you always.
Donna Libby
March 30, 2012
What a nice guy, always smiling and grinning. I'm happy to have known and worked with Dennis over the many years in Distribution. May you now find peace with the angels and comfort from our prayers. You will be greatly missed. Always.
March 30, 2012
To the family: As you grieve of sadness may the "hearer of prayer" help you to endure this time of sorrow and grant you peace. My deepest condolences. (Psalms 65:2)
gail durkee
March 30, 2012
this saddens me as he went to bat for me several times when he was in massachusetts, he was a great guy,passionate for his union people, i will always remeber him as the the best union rep, god bless you dennis and god bless your family.
Alyssa
March 30, 2012
I am sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the God of peace.
Jay Deragon
March 30, 2012
To Dennis Family:
Dennis was and is a man whose spirit left lasting impressions of a strong character. For me fond memories of him go back to Holy Cross School and the Little League. His family will be in our prayers and our sympathy goes out to his family
March 30, 2012
Linda and Family,
Our hearts and prays are with you. We will always cherrish the times we shared with you and Dennis. It was evident to us the love you have for each other. He gave us all many laughs especially the wedding we crashed. Dean always talked about the good times him and Dennis had on the golf course. We are here for you if you ever need anything. Love Dean and Betsy
Larry Dion
March 30, 2012
Great photo slide show!! I still have tears in my eyes!!!
Larry Dion
March 30, 2012
Our heart felt sympathy to all of the Norton family. We know what it is to lose a Grandfather, Father, Brother and Son.We have many fond memories of Dennis and his family back in the time of our high school years. Dennis will be in good company and has a few things to teach others where he is now . God Bless you all and Dennis.
Rod & Barb Morton
March 30, 2012
Linda,
So sorry for your loss,you both had a wonderful family.As times passes and the pain subsides,you'll have wonderful memories that will bring a smile to you.God bless you all.
March 30, 2012
Sadly, a great personality and person has left us. I had the good fortune to play sports with Dennis at Mahoney and SPHS. He was a great guy and a great leader. Our quarterback. My thoughts and prayers are with the Norton Family.
Jeff and Theresa Moody: Louisville, KY
March 30, 2012
The Norton family--so sorry to read about Dennis. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Ramsay family
Pam Napolitano
March 30, 2012
Linda, my thoughts are with you and your family at this extremely difficult time. I have been where you are now. Cherish your wonderful memories and your beautiful children
Rick Charette
March 30, 2012
On Wednesday, March 28th, Local 1445 members lost not only their servicing representative but a good friend as well. Dennis Norton, who was diagnosed with cancer in the fall, ultimately lost his battle but not without a gallant fight.
As his members and many friends know, Dennis was a special man. His smile lit up a room and his people skills were phenomenal. He had the ability to calm down an angry person and, before he was done, had that same person speaking and thinking positive thoughts. If anyone needed help when Dennis was around, they never even had to ask because Dennis had already seen the need and jumped right in - that was the type of person he was.
During all the years I've known Dennis and all the times he came to me with a request (and there were plenty!), it was never for himself, always for his members. He was always looking to do something with the stewards at Coca-Cola, Hannaford Brothers, and the Stop & Shop stores in New Hampshire: to help members in need; to do something in the community around the holidays; to set up training for the stewards so they could better fight for their members; to lobby for or against a local issue, with the goal of benefiting his members' families. Dennis was, first and foremost, a working man and a proud union brother who used his considerable energy and abilities to fight for his union family.
Dennis is going to be missed by a lot of people, not only his family and friends, but also the people he worked with on both sides of the negotiating table; the many labor unionists that he fought shoulder-to-shoulder with; his members that he fought so hard and so long for; and our staff who knew and loved him for what he demonstrated himself to be: a great friend and a great man. We all have the greatest respect for Dennis, and will always remember his amazing smile.
March 30, 2012
Linda,
So sorry to hear this news. Please let me know if you need anything or even just a sounding board. May you and your family find peace in this very difficult time.
Take care, Kitsy
Jane Caterina Greer
March 30, 2012
I was so sad to hear of of Dennis' passing. I was a classmate from Mahoney Junior High and South Portland High School class of 1976. What I remember most about Dennis was his mischievious smile and his loyalty to his friends. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time.
March 30, 2012
Dennis will be sadly missed by his UFCW family. My thoughts and prayers are with Linda and his children in these difficult times. Rest In Peace, Brother. Rick Brown, UFCW Local 1459
Easter 2010
Sean LaBrie
March 30, 2012
Dennis was a great friend and uncle. He was an enthusiastic competitor and always ready with a joke. Dennis put me on the path to my career with Hannaford and was a great mentor. I feel honored to have had Dennis' influence in my life. He worked hard, played hard, and seized each day. I will deeply miss his company.
Maryanne Weeman
March 30, 2012
My heart goes out the Norton family. I am so sorry for your loss
Roxanne Munksgaard
March 30, 2012
We fought together for working people, Dennis. North and South. And through all of it, I will always remember your humor and smiling face. And how you spoke up just like me...Rest in peace -- your work is done!
Maureen Coyne/Mehlhorn
March 30, 2012
When I think of Dennis the first word that comes to mind is "Big". Big personality, big heart, big sense of humor just plain "BIG". You have left your mark Dennis and it will be big! Love and prayers to Linda and the Norton Family and Friends!
the 4 horsemen
Bobby Bowen
March 30, 2012
I will always cherish our memories together my friend,lv u bud
Tom & Ute Lestage
March 30, 2012
Dennis and I worked on the Labor Council together for year's, he was a dedicated Union and Family man; God bless him and his family and the deepest of condolences and prayers from my family to the Norton family; God speed Dennis. Tom & Ute Lestage of Westbrook Me.
Sue Melcher
March 30, 2012
When I think of Dennis Norton a smile always comes on my face. Dennis made an impact on everyone's life that he touched. He and Linda had a love for one another that most people will never experience. My children loved playing at the Norton's home. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all. This is a very sad day in this world, Dennis made such an impact on so many of us... Love and parays are sent your way....
Kim Speed
March 30, 2012
My thoughts are with all of Dennis's family. I knew Dennis a bit as a teenager and as an adult in the workplace. He was very proud of all of his children. He had a big personality and an infectious smile and laugh. He will be missed.
Linda Clark-Bean (Harlow)
March 30, 2012
Linda and family, Dennis was such a wonderful person with such an infectious smile.Your video was beautiful...so many memories to take you through this time. Know my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Susan Bissonette-Neill
March 30, 2012
An important base of friendship from Mahoney Jr - throughout South Portland High - a "gentle giant"! Your faith guided you well. You'll be missed Dennis. Susan Bissonette-Neill
Alan Churchill President of the Southern Maine Labor Council
March 30, 2012
We at the Southern Maine Labor Council are very saddened by the news of Dennis passing. Dennis was a former President of the Southern Maine Labor Council and we appreciate all that he did for the working men and women of our State and beyond. We send our condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. His death leaves us all with emptiness, a void that we cannot fill.
Linda Ferrazzara
March 30, 2012
My deepest sympathy to all the family. I first met Dennis when he came to work as a business agent for Local 1445, and in all the time since, I've never known him to come into the office without a smile on his face and a cheerful greeting. I know he was so proud of his family, proud to be a Downeasterner, and especially proud to be a champion for the working people he represented. We will all miss him very much. Linda Ferrazzara, UFCW Local 1445
Angie & Jay Ferrell
March 30, 2012
Linda our thoughts are with you and your family. Dennis was an amazing man who was looked up to by many. He will be missed. My Grandmother Eunice Brewer wanted to send her love your way.
Kathy Olore
March 30, 2012
I grew up with the Norton Family - I was so saddened to hear the news of Dennis - my heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Kathy Olson Olore
Tina Parsons
March 30, 2012
Dennis always came into the office with a funny story to make us chuckle. He was always smiling. He will be missed.
My thoughts & prayers go out to the Norton family.
Sheila Coughlin
March 30, 2012
May you now rest in peace Dennis. I will always remember your HUGE grin and silly sense of humor.
May your family cherish their memories each and every day.
Elizabeth Fortin
March 30, 2012
A wonderful man who I love and respect. So grateful to call you Brother-In-Law. You will always be in our hearts and my kids will always be reminded of you.
Paula Smithson
March 30, 2012
Dear Linda and Family,
I was so saddened to hear of your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Fondly, Paula Smithson
Kathi Jensen
March 30, 2012
May the peace of God. which surpasses understanding, guard your hearts in Christ Jesus. Thanking the Lord Dennis' pain has ended, and praying for his family's pain to ease as the good memories of Dennis' life, well-lived, fill your hearts and minds I'm so sad for your loss, Linda and kids
Dave Christian
March 30, 2012
Dennis you will be missed by all who knew ypu we never did get too have that beer togeather thanks for being there thru my own illness you made my leave from stopnshop so much easier REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND
March 30, 2012
Big smile, an even Bigger heart! May the family find peace during these difficult times fueled by the memories he gave everyone.
"A-Lane"
Margaret Cullinan Rancourt
March 30, 2012
To Linda and family, Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss. I grew up with Dennis - Holy Cross, Mahoney Jr High, SPHS. He was a wonderful person.
Julie Murdock
March 30, 2012
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Norton within the last year. He is one of the strongest, caring, and kindest men I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. No matter how he was feeling he would always have a smile on his face. His wife was also one of the nicest people I have ever met. My thoughts and prayers go out to this family at this difficult time. I can honestly say that I am grateful for God giving me the opportunity to meet this man at my job and make me a better person.
Robin Newton
March 29, 2012
you where one of the nicest friends of my sister and her husband. I have known you for over 40 yrs. you where a huge part of my growing up. you will be missed.
Terri McRoy
March 29, 2012
What an amazing man that loved his wife and family. I truly respected him. I will see him again in eternity and I am sure he will bump into my dad. You are going to be missed.
casey hester
March 29, 2012
Always a loving smile and kind heart.....you only made the world a better place and for that im glad i was able to know you. A true friend to the end and never a dull momment!! Loved LIFE to the fullest and ment a Great deal to my family. My you be a rest and have peace as you enter the havens.....your spirit will always be remembered and you will always be missed .......we love you
casey hester
March 29, 2012
You will be missed!!!
Jason Stuart
March 29, 2012
Everything good, I owe to you. It was and is a privilege to be a part of your family. Your legacy will live on through me and my son. Thank you.
Anthony Ciliento
March 29, 2012
I met Dennis 10 years ago when I began my career with Local 371 UFCW in CT. Despite being only 22 years old at the time, Dennis treated me as peer and with great respect even though I was just the new kid. I will not forget the good times we had in Mystic, Mt Washington and other places along the way. He was truly an asset to the labor movement, and good man. I have since moved to Washington DC to continue my career in the labor movement so unfortunately I will not be able to attend the services. I offer his family, friends and the Local 1445 family my deepest condolences. Dennis will stay in my prayers. RIP brother.
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