Jerry Don Norton

Jerry Don Norton, died November 30, 2010 after suffering a long fought battle with cancer, Jerry was born in Oklahoma City on September 18, 1963. He attended John Marshall school and was graduated from the original Putman City High School. He was a lifelong resident of Oklahoma having spent a few years in Europe and around the US to pursue a career in the decorative plumbing and hardware industry. He was president of the family owned, Oklahoma City business, Designer Hardware by Faye working hand in hand with his mother, Faye Norton, to grow and maintain a nationally and internationally known business. In the late 80's Jerry spent 3 years in Germany as the USA Export Manager for the Germany company, Jado. During this time Jerry learned fluent German and could still speak the language. His career took him to many American markets including San Diego, Houston and Atlanta where he lived and worked for various European and American companies. At that time Jerry was appointed to the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officers (IAPMO) to implement comprehensive code development of the European plumbing products for the US markets. He came back to Oklahoma City in 1993, where he transferred his knowledge and expertise to the family business. He was a board member of Decorative Plumbing and Hardware Association (DPHA) and a member of the buying groups, Forte' and Group USA. He was an active member of the Western Avenue Association, a group of merchants on and around Western Avenue in Oklahoma City. During his lifetime, Jerry became very accomplished in the theater arts both as a performer and a director. One of his favorite endeavors was directing the local theatre production of Music Man at the Redlands College in El Reno, Oklahoma. Music and dance topped the charts as his most loved hobbies. Jerry is preceded in death by his sister, Mitzi Norton and brother, Steve; grandfather, Walter B. Fulton, and grandparents; Marion and Nancy Norton. He is survived by his partner, Gene Goforth; parents, Faye and Herb Norton; grandmother, Ruby Fulton; uncle J.R. 'Bud' Fulton and several cousins. Jerry will certainly be missed by his partner, family and friends and many of his industry leaders around the world. He has been an inspiration to all who knew him during his long illness as he showed strength and love of life to the end.