Robert “Bob” Lee Norton was born a fighter on Aug 3, 1928 (at 2.5 lbs.) & he died a fighter on Nov 27, 2024.
At 96 he had led a full life. His 1st love was his wife (Bernice, “Benny” Decker), married 74 years. He was also very close to his daughter, Christina Ann Waltrip and son-in-law Max. Max passed away February 7, 2021. Bob was never happier than when he was on the water: swimming, boating & fishing (never sitting still of course) and then music of all types. He loved dancing the polka, playing guitar and harmonica with the Gateway Harmonica Club for 18 years. He had learned how to play the harmonica by ear as a boy. He sorely missed the camaraderie of the Gateway Harmonica Club’s members of late. But he’d been missing the quips and jokes of relationships with both friends & family for some time. He didn’t cook or grill but was accused many times of eating more than his share of fish at a backyard fish fry.
Bob was raised by a foster family so it was a special delight to him to be accepted and included into his wife’s large Decker family (Bennie was 1 of 8 children) and he learned to hunt with her brothers – a requirement, you know. But he’d rather fish any day. Deep sea, bass, trout, catfish: you name it, he’d try to catch it.
Bob passed his GED (high school equivalent) shortly after completing his military service. He joined the Army at 17 for 1.5 years and then served in the Air Force for five years: of which 3.5 years were in Japan (although he didn’t master snow skiing, he enjoyed seeing new lands) and 1.5 years in Biloxi, Mississippi. Near water & unlimited fishing options – he was ecstatic. He was honorably discharged.
He worked as a forklift operator for Gaylord Box for 14 years & then worked for Laclede Gas for 20 years, as a pipefitter and other positions. Bob retired at age 60 & spent time with family, friends, the Gateway Harmonica Club and traveling.
Bob had a positive outlook on life and a funny natural wit that came out each and every day. We will miss laughing with him the most. A friend said, “Angels will be playing the harmonica when they welcome Bob.”
Services: Visitation at Kutis South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry) Tuesday, December 3, 11:00 AM until service at 1:00 PM. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
My deepest sympathy to the family. I have many fond memories of Bob with his Harmonica . His favorite song to play with La vie en Rose. The gateway Harmonica club will miss Bob, but he will always be with us and thought and prayers may his memory be eternal
From Sharon and Jeanette Grzechowiak sending our condolences to Chris and Benny you are in our thoughts and prayers..
Bob, you were the best. A great friend and a great harmonica player. My life has been better because you were a part of it.