Joseph Bernard Norton

Joseph Bernard Norton, 73, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away on May 20, 2023. Joseph was born in Jersey City, New Jersey to Joseph and Eleanor (Hayes) Norton on March 29, 1950. He was the first of four boys growing up in Jersey City spending his time trying to provide guidance for his brothers. He was a Veteran of the Vietnam War serving as a combat engineer in the Marines Corps where he received the Good Conduct Medal.

After serving, he came back to the United States where he met his future wife Emelia Rocco in 1972. Two years later they were married.  During that time, he worked various jobs until he started at Colgate Palmolive in 1973 in the manufacturing sector as a line operator. In 1986, he relocated to the Midwest with his family where he honed his skills as a homeowner taking pride in all projects around the house.  Over the next four decades Emelia and Joseph raised their two sons, distilling hard work, compassion and fun into their lives.  They watched them grow up and graduate from college and continue their quest of moving west to California where they currently reside. In his free time, he enjoyed traveling on special occasions, barbequing, and watching the Yankees, Chiefs, and Jayhawks.

Joseph is survived by his wife Emelia of 49 years and two sons: Joseph, an Account Manager and Devin, a Senior Project Designer with the architecture firm HOK. In addition, he is survived by his two brothers John and Greg. The family would like to thank the healthcare providers with Olathe Medical Center, Olathe Home Health and the Hospice House who made Joseph’s final days a comfortable experience and allowed him a quiet dignified passing. They thank the many friends and family members who sent well wishes and support during his battle.

Funeral arrangements are through Johnson County Funeral Chapel & Memorial Gardens with services at the Overland Park Funeral Chapel on Friday, June 2, beginning with a Visitation from 10:30am – 12pm, and a Funeral Service from 12pm – 12:30 pm. A Military ceremony and burial will follow on June 5, 12:30-12:45pm at the Leavenworth National Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to one of the following charities.

Wayside Waifs

Ways To Donate - Warrior Foundation

American Cancer Society