Larry L. Norton (1943-2025) of Christina Lake, BC, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on August 31. He had major health issues the past five years, through sheer determination, he regained his strength to carry on with the things he enjoyed; working in his yard, puttering in his shop, helping the neighborhood with home & machinery repairs, spending time with family/friends & petting EVERY dog that walked by their property.

Larry earned his bachelor’s degree from Black Hills State (Spearfish, SD) and his master’s in education from (San Diego, CA). In 1969, Larry and Treasa responded to a request for teachers in Northern Alberta (Canada) and made a leap of faith, securing a teaching position and making the move to Sexsmith, AB, Canada. He was a long-time teacher and coach (1969 - 1998) at Sexsmith Secondary School, with a two-year term at Teepee Creek School in the 1980s. He primarily taught Industrial Art (Wood, Ceramics, Automotive, and Metals Shop) but also instructed math in Sexsmith and various classes for grades 1-9 at Teepee Creek. His love of sports initiated him to secure basic equipment (from BHS contacts) to start up the high school football program in Sexsmith. He coached football, basketball, volleyball, and curling during his tenure at Sexsmith Secondary. Larry loved teaching his students and athletes; he worked hard to make education meaningful through encouragement and confidence-building, along with good-natured fun. Upon retirement from teaching, Larry and Treasa moved to Christina Lake, BC in 1998.

Being a positive member of his community was always important to him and included belonging to various organizations including the Alberta Teachers Association, Elks, etc. with the most important thing being the relationships created. He could always be counted on to volunteer time for the many events and projects for both the school and community. Larry’s zest for life included spending time in the great outdoors, embracing nature, great food, big laughs, and warm relationships. He never met a stranger and sought to find goodness in all souls; was always there to support in bringing that light forward.

Larry is survived by his wife of 61 years, Treasa and daughters Kim Norton (Rick Drolet) of Grand Forks, BC and Misty Norton of Cold Lake, AB and will forever be in our hearts. He was predeceased by his son, Troy Norton, in 1973, as well as his parents, grandparents, and cousins.

There are no formal services planned at Larry’s request.

Should you desire, donations to your favorite charity would be appreciated by the family.

Care has been entrusted to Grand Forks Funeral Home & Cremation Centre Ltd.