B.E. "Bushy" Norberg

NORBERG, B. E. "Bushy" A lifetime resident of Stevens County, passed away May 23, 2009 at his home in Colville at the age of 91. He was born on September 25, 1917 in Northport the fourth child of Sofia (Lofflin) and Eric Norberg. Bushy attended school in Northport and graduated at the age of 15 from Northport High School in 1935. He spent some time in the logging industry and then began work for the B.J. Carney Co. who supplied power poles for the electrification of the entire western United States. Starting as a laborer, he gradually worked his way up in the company to the position of Vice President. He retired at the age of 67 after more than 40 years with the company. In 1941 Bushy married Jennie Ponech in Coeur d'Alene. She preceded him in death in 1986. In 1943 he volunteered for the Army and served three years in the South Pacific seeing extended combat in the battle of Guadalcanal. He returned back to Northport and to the Carney Company to continue his career. He became very involved in community interests and politics. He served on the Northport city council for 12 years from 1948 to 1955, two terms as mayor of the city. Northport Masonic Lodge No. 110, Scottish Rite, El Katif Shrine, N.E. Washington Shrine Club, Northport Volunteer Fire Department, Upper Columbia Timberman's Association, Roosevelt Log Owner's Association, the Hoo-Hoo Club and State Democratic Committeeman for twelve years. He served at the head of each organization and nearly every other office in each one over the years. Bushy is survived by his life companion, Willie Jean Poore, at the home. He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters including Karen, Helferd and Mary. Memorial services for Bushy will be held at the Danekas Funeral Chapel at 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 29, 2009 with Reverend Shane Moffitt officiating and the Rose Croix and Colville Masonic Lodge No. 50 F&AM participating. Memorials may be made to the Shriner's Hospital in his memory. Please visit the online memorial and sign the guest book at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. The DANEKAS FUNERAL CHAPEL AND CREMATORY, 155 W. First Ave., Colville, WA 99114 is in charge of arrangements.