OBITUARY

Frank "F.C" Charles Norton Jr.

JUNE 23, 1955 – FEBRUARY 8, 2025

IN THE CARE OF

Fairhaven Memorial Services

Frank Charles (F.C.) Norton Jr. June 23, 1955 – February 8, 2025

With profound sadness, we share the passing of Frank Charles Norton Jr., an adventurous spirit who lived life to the fullest. Born on June 23, 1955, in Salina, Kansas, to Frank and Jeanne Norton, F.C. had an insatiable curiosity and a fearless heart that led him to embrace every experience with enthusiasm and joy.

F.C. had a deep love for adventure. He lived with an energy that was impossible to contain and kindness that made everyone around him feel seen and loved. He found freedom in the skies, whether piloting planes, soaring in gliders, or experiencing the rush of wind while skydiving, paragliding, or riding his beloved Ducati motorcycles. His adventurous spirit also extended to sailing, scuba diving, lobstering on his fishing boat, and he relished the challenge of golf.

He spent his last day doing what he loved most: flying in a sailplane and returning to his beloved French bulldogs in the home he loved in Coto de Caza, California. Although his time here was far too short, he left a legacy of adventure, kindness, and an unwavering zest for life. His absence leaves a void that can never truly be filled.

F.C. is survived by his mother, Jeanne Norton, of Salina, Kansas; his daughter, Courtney; his brother, Bryan Norton; his sisters, Laura Skidmore and Eve Sullivan and Eve’s husband, Dan; and the children he cherished as his own: Ryan Maher and his fiancée Haley Abbott, Tara Craven and her husband Ryan, who was like a beloved son. His stepdaughter, Lisa Griffin, and her husband, Adam, also blessed his life. FC is also survived by his nephews and nieces: Trevor and Samantha Sullivan, Alexandria Norton, Danielle Norton Hecks, Johnnie Norton, and Emmy Skidmore.

Known by many titles—son, brother, father, husband, uncle, grandfather, and friend—he found immense joy in being ‘Poppa’ to his grandchildren: Caleb and Camryn, the children of Ryan and Tara; Hunter, the son of Haley; and Abigail, the daughter of Lisa and Adam. F.C. was the thread that wove these little lives together, and his life was abundant watching the bonds formed among these children who loved gathering at Poppa’s house.

F.C. was just one week short of celebrating 21 years of marriage to the love of his life, Patrice, who will forever hold him in her heart. Patrice always said it was her privilege to witness his life; together, they built a life filled with love, family, adventure, friendship, and laughter—the stuff dreams are made of. The outpouring of love we have received is a testament to the countless lives he touched. We are all grateful for the gift of having shared in his journey.

While these words capture only a small part of what a beautiful human he was, they offer a glimpse into his extraordinary life. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate him, honoring his legacy by seeking adventure, loving fiercely, and never wasting a moment.

Fly high, F.C. You are deeply missed, and your spirit will never be forgotten. Your essence could never be contained. Though our time with you was too short, we cherish every moment and are thankful for your impact on our lives.

________________________________________

His life will be celebrated on February 22, beginning at noon, at Broadway by Amar Santana in Laguna Beach, California.