Obituary of Thomas Leroy Norman
Thomas Leroy Norman was born in Carleton, Michigan on July 30, 1933. He was one of three children born from the union of Roy and Carrie (Blain) Norman. Tom lived his entire life in Carleton and attended Airport High School, where he played all four years of football, basketball and baseball. He graduated with his class in 1952. Shortly after high school, Tom joined the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1955, after being stationed in Korea.
After being discharged from the service he came back to Carleton and got his barber license opening the Sportsman's Barber Shop for 18 years. In 1973 he was employed at Ford Motor Company until his retirement in 1996.
Tom married Joyce Tom on May 19, 1956 at Zion Lutheran Church. They were wed by Pastor Cares and were active members of the church together for 64 years. Together they raised one daughter and four sons, all of whom he loved dearly.
He was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 4093 Carleton, where he served two terms as Post Commander. Tom also acted as the Ash Township Supervisor in 1973.
Having a great sense of humor, Tom was a teaser and liked to joke with his family and friends. He brought much joy and laughter to the annual family vacations spent on the water. He looked forward to traveling every year to see family out of state. Golfing was a favorite past time for him, as well as, meeting his friends at the Farmer’s Café often for breakfast. Tom was passionate about maintaining his yard and having people compliment him on it.
Thomas Leroy Norman passed away at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital, Wednesday, December 30, 2020, under the care of hospice. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by; two brothers: Jack Norman and James Norman.
To cherish his memory, Tom leaves his wife of 64 years; five children: Thomas (Connie) Norman, Jill Norman, Joel Norman, Michael Norman, and Matthew Norman; five grandchildren: Danielle Hendley, Stephanie Nixon, Adam Norman, Jordan Norman and Taylor Norman; and three great-grandchildren: Stella Hendley, Spencer Hendley, and Aisling Nixon.
Friends and family may gather 9:00am to 11:00am at Zion Lutheran Church, 186 Cole Road. A Celebration of Life will take place at 11:00am, also at Zion Lutheran Church. Procession to Roselawn will follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Zion Lutheran Church and Hospice of Michigan.
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