Larry Norton

Larry James Norton, a devoted husband, father, and friend, passed away on October 31, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona. He was 87 years old.

Born on October 16, 1938, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, Larry was the son of Raymond and Phoebe (Barrie) Norton. He grew up in Conde, South Dakota, where his adventurous spirit and sense of humor quickly became part of his legend. He was often seen riding horseback through town, and while there were rumors he once shot out the one streetlight in Conde, it was never proven—and Larry certainly never confirmed it. He carried many fun and silly stories about growing up in a small town, and sharing them brought him joy throughout his life.

Larry married the love of his life, Connie Boutin, in 1988. They enjoyed a wonderful and loving marriage together.

Larry proudly served his country in the United States Navy, where his service instilled in him a strong sense of loyalty and commitment that he carried throughout his life. He pursued his education with dedication, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in industrial arts from Northern State University—all while working full-time and raising a young family.

After completing his military service and academic studies, Larry became a teacher of Industrial Arts at several South Dakota high schools, including Aberdeen Central, Sisseton, and Bristol. In the late 1970s, he founded Norton Construction, which he continued to operate until his passing. While living in Verdon, SD, he built a beautiful home for his family—often with the help of his children, his most trusted crew.

A man of many talents and interests, Larry found great joy in home building and remodeling. His craftsmanship and skill with wood were evident in the countless projects he undertook over the years—not only for himself but also to help his children and family members with their homes. Whether constructing something new or restoring something old, Larry approached every task with care and precision.

He cherished his yearly pheasant hunting trips to South Dakota, where he spent time with the family and friends he loved. He and Connie also enjoyed traveling extensively in their fifth-wheel trailer, making cherished memories on the road together.

Larry appreciated life’s simpler pleasures—playing cards with family and friends, dancing with Connie, and sharing stories around the table. His warmth and good humor made him a welcome presence wherever he went.

He was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Tucson, Arizona. Faith was a cornerstone of Larry and Connie’s life. It guided them through joyful moments and difficult times alike, providing a foundation for the values he passed on to those around him.

Larry is lovingly remembered by his wife of 37 years, Connie Norton; daughters Julie (Tom) Egli, grandsons Liam O’Shea and James Cudney; Jayne (Bill) Johnston; Jody (Ken) Kleker, granddaughter Jillian Kleker; and stepchildren Theresa (Bill) McPhederan, Mark (Lisa) Merrill, Michael (Dawn) Merrill, and Patricia (Jared) Cameron. He is also survived by 16 step-grandchildren, his sister Jean (Harlan) Sundvold, his brother-in-law Jerry Bertsch, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Phoebe (Barrie) Norton; his daughter, Jill Norton; and his sister, Mavis (Norton) Bertsch.

Larry’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched—with every home project completed under his guidance, every card game played at the kitchen table, and every dance shared with Connie. We take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his beloved family and friends in heaven. May his memory bring peace and comfort to all who knew and loved him.