Ryan M. Norton Sr., 49, of Batavia passed away on November 16, 2023. He was born on July 12, 1974 in Batavia to the late David Norton and Mary (Heisler) Woods of California. In addition to his father, Ryan is predeceased by his; daughter Allie Zarty.
Ryan is survived by his mother; Mary (Richard) Woods of CA; stepmother Anne Norton of Hilton; children Marissa Norton of CA., Ryan M. Norton Jr. of Batavia, Gabe Norton of MI., Becky Kantz of MI., Justin Kantz of York, and Duane Godfrey of CA.; significant other Michelle Kantz of MI; siblings Tom (Sherrie) Norton of Hamlin, Jason (Michelle) Norton of Oakfield, Michael Kramer of GA., and Tammy Kramer of WA; 10 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Ryan was a man that was all heart; he cared deeply for all people. Rarely judging others for their faults, Ryan showed grace knowing that those who show mercy shall receive mercy.
He lived his life helping others reaching out to family, and those who were lonely. Throughout his life Ryan felt misunderstood but he had a way of including others who felt the same, making people feel welcomed and loved. He was drawn to people whom he felt struggled in the same manner. Ryan kept in touch with many people from his past and considered them friends. If you really knew Ryan, then you knew despite his rough & tough exterior, he was a big gentle cuddly bear.
He lived in New York, California and Michigan throughout his life. He deeply loved His family especially his children /stepchildren and Grandchildren having his children/stepchildren and grandchildren in different states didn't matter, he always made a point to be in touch with them as much as possible. Always making sure that the connection and bond remained intact.
Ryan worked as a cook at many restaurants, and he worked as an oil change expert in his younger days. Ryan ended up as a machinist following in his Dad's footsteps. He was passionate working on the Acme machines and had the knowhow to run these extreme precision machines, this was the work that he absolutely loved to do.
Ryan enjoyed spending time fishing with his brother which became a love for him at a young age with his Pops. Watching Basketball Especially March Madness and the Buffalo Bills games
Ryan enjoyed watching sports especially with family & friends. He was a true Buffalo Bills fan, Bills mafia all the way. He loved his music and his music had to be loud. You always knew when Ryan had arrived at his destination because you could hear the booming bass pulling in the drive outside the location.
Holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries were dates that Ryan never ever forgot, You could always rely on him to remind us of what was coming up. Well November 17th, 2023, is the date that all of us who loved and knew Ryan will never forget, this is the date that all of our hearts have been changed forever because this was the day that our Heavenly Father Called Ryan home into his Kingdom and tender loving arms.
There will be no prior calling hours. A 1:00PM Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday December 9, 2023 at the Everpresent Church 4 Batavia City Centre Batavia, NY 14020.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to offset the memorial expenses. Donation link https://everpresentchurch.com/ryan-norton-memorial-support/ or www.everpresentchurch.com under giving page. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.
