Donn C. Norton

Donn C. Norton, 75, of Great Valley, NY died Friday afternoon, November 8, 2024 at Olean General Hospital following a short illness.

Born July 13, 1949 in Salamanca, NY, he was the son of the late Ryan and Eileen Button Norton. He was married on March 20, 1976 in Bradford, PA to the former Jacqueline Murawski, who survives.

Donn was a veteran of the United States National Guard, serving from 1969 – 1975.

He was a graduate of Ellicottville High School, Class of 1967 and also graduated from Paul Smith’s Forestry College, Paul Smiths, NY in 1969.

From the age of 12 when he attended his first conservation camp and received his first chainsaw, Donn knew he wanted to be a forester and logger. He spent his life working in the forest acreage he owned in the Chipmunk Valley. He always managed the forest for future generations. His cathedral was the tall green trees he lived with every day. He owned and operated the Norton Land Company, Great Valley, NY for over 48 years and had previously worked with his father at the former CB Norton and Son, Great Valley, NY.

He enjoyed spending time with his beloved grandchildren, building construction projects, including his first home, and being outdoors.

Surviving besides his wife are: a son, Bradner (Danielle) Norton, Great Valley, NY; his beloved grandchildren; two sisters, Gay Fitzpatrick, Great Valley, NY, Ann (Joe) Tascone, Elmira, NY; a brother, Allen (Ruth) Norton, Allegany, NY; several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his beloved Timberjack skidder.

He was predeceased by two sisters, Nan Ullman and Kathy Norton.

There will be no visitation.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family and will be announced.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the O’Rourke & O’Rourke Inc. Funeral Home, 25 River Street, Salamanca, NY.

E-condolences can be sent to orourke.orourkefh@gmail.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.