David M. Norton's Obituary
David M. Norton, age 96, of DuQuoin, IL, passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 11:40 a.m., at his home surrounded by his loving family.
David was born on September 16, 1929, in Petersburg, IN, a son to Albert Hanley and Reba Philina (Jones) Norton. On August 17, 1952, he married Mary Louise Gallmeister in DuQuoin, IL. David proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was a member of the First United Church of Christ in DuQuoin, IL. David attended Indiana University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in H.P.E.R., he went on to the University of Missouri and graduated with a Master of Science in Biological Sciences and majored in Special Education at Southern Illinois University. He was able to attend several universities through the National Science Foundation. David taught at the high school level in Pinckneyville, Tamaroa, Cahokia, Palestine and Ashley, for over 50 years. He retired from Southwest Illinois College.
David belonged to the Masonic Lodge since 1950 and was a 32nd degree Mason. He was a proud member of the Boy Scouts of America for over 57 years and received the Silver Beaver Award and the Girl Scouts of America for over 49 years and received the Thanks Badge. David was also a member and Chaplin of the American Legion, V.F.W., Shriners, and the Sons of the American Revolution, as well as many other social organizations. He spent 25 years with the C.D. Rescue and Recovery Team. David loved listening to good music, fishing, being with nature, stamp and coin collecting, and traveling with Mary. He was energetic, fair and an all-around happy guy. David will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Survivors include his loving wife of 73 years, Mary Norton of DuQuoin, IL; daughter Susan Mary (Mark) Rasp of O’Fallon, IL, Peggy (David) Holland; son, Timothy David (JoAnn) Norton of Crestwood, MO; and four grandchildren, Jacob Holland of Perryville, MO, Chase (Tabitha) Holland of California, Hannah Holland of Dupo, IL, and Diva L. Norton of Japan; a niece, Debbie (Randy) DeMent of Du Quoin; several nieces and nephews, several great nieces and nephews; special friends, Maria Lavoto of Santa Fe Pueblo; and Cheryl (Steve) Swallers of Du Quoin.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services will be held at Pyatt Funeral Home, DuQuoin, IL, on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Hugh Fitz officiating. Interment will be in I.O.O.F. Cemetery, DuQuoin, IL. Masonic Rites will be done by local lodges in the area. Military Honors will be performed by The United States Army and DuQuoin V.F.W. and American Legion.
Visitation will be held at Pyatt Funeral Home, DuQuoin, IL on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.
Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois.
Pyatt Funeral Home, DuQuoin, IL has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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