Virginia Esch Norton

NORTON, Virginia Anne Esch "Ginnie"
Portage, Michigan Passed away Thursday, July 23, 2009. Ginnie was born March 30, 1922 in Cleveland Heights, OH, the daughter of James G. and Virginia Heckman Esch and had been a resident in Portage, Ml since 1964. Ginnie received a Bachelor's degree from Ohio Wesleyan University, a Master's degree from Ohio State University and a second Master's degree in Counseling & Personnel from Western Michigan University. She worked at WMU as the Assistant Director of Student Life and Director of Handicapped Student Services for 20 years, retiring in 1987. She was an avid bridge player and loved to travel. Ginnie touched so many lives with her contagious enthusiasm, positive attitude and gentle encouragement. She was actively involved in many women's organizations. Ginnie was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority, Past President of Ladies Library, Women's Fellowship and District Past-President of the General Federation of Women's Clubs. She was a member of the First Congregational Church of Kalamazoo. Ginnie will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She will always be in our hearts. Her husband, Guy A. Norton, whom she married April 27, 1946, preceded Ginnie in death. Two brothers, James and Robert Esch also preceded her. Surviving are 4 children, Nancy A. Norton of Kalamazoo, James Arnela Norton of Las Vegas, NV, Robert Ruth Norton of Kalamazoo, William R. Norton of Conyers, GA; 3 grandchildren, Jeffery Norton of Las Vegas, Julien and Corbin Norton of Conyers, GA; a sister-in-law, Pam Esch of South Euclid, OH and many nieces and nephews. There will be no public visitation. A memorial service to celebrate and honor Ginnie's life will be held Monday August 17th at 12:30pm at the First Congregational Church of Kalamazoo, 129 S. Park St. A private family committal will be held in Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Ladies Library of Kalamazoo, the First Congregational Church or the charity of your choice.