Obituary of Norton Holstrom

Norton D. Holstrom lived an exceptionally prosperous life! He worked hard, played well and loved his family. He was especially devoted to his wife of 42 years, Mary Ann. He was born on August 15, 1932 and passed away on October 16, 2013. Norton was raised lovingly by his parents, Norton Holstrom Sr. (Bapa) and Lucille Holstrom (Gammy). Gammy and Bapa remained a constant source of love and encouragement for Norton as well as a strong influence of integrity and good moral character, for the entire Holstrom/Rock clan throughout their lives. Norton is survived by his beloved wife Mary Ann Holstrom; Sons: Norton D. Holstrom (Lorrie), Timothy Rock (Kim), Dayn Holstrom (Cheryl), Christopher Rock (Elizabeth), and Theodore Rock (Jamie). Daughters: Shelley Fugate (Harold) and Katrin Webb (Dale). Grandchildren: Kristen Fiebiger (Jeremy), Torrie Moreno (Robert), Cody Holstrom, Jacqueline "Jake" Rock, Taryn Holstrom, Rick Abraham, Jessie Holstrom (Tanya), TJ Rock (Jenette), Cameron Rock (Nicole), Julianne Webb, Taylor Holstrom, Zachary Holstrom, Jordan Rock, Danielle Webb, Caitlin Rock, Gavin Holstrom and Joshua Rock. Great Grandchildren: Christopher, Peyton, Dalani, Austin, Raegen, Jessa and Lincoln. As a young boy, Norton established a commendable work ethic. His first job was delivering newspapers, on his bicycle, with his dog Tucker. He worked alongside his parents and Grandmother Ida in their family restaurants. After graduating high school he joined the US Air force. He attended night school for many years studying accounting. He worked as a book keeper for Canoga Builder Supplies. Eventually, Norton worked alongside his father at Norton Sales Company selling aerospace surplus which he thoroughly enjoyed. He often referred to himself as a "junkie". Norton had many fond memories of spending time with his Grandmother Sophie at her cabin in Twin Peaks, a place he would return to often with his own children. He loved camping! Having its origin in a station wagon and later moving up to a tent trailer and eventually to a Motor home. He and Mary Ann were members of several camping clubs and traveled extensively often with their very close friends Stu and Carol Blair. While sitting around the campfire at night, listening to the ocean break on the shore, Norton would often say "It doesn't get any better than this." Holidays such as Christmas, Easter and Birthdays were always a big event and a time of great celebration for the entire family. Most of these events took place at the home of Norton and Mary Ann on Lilac Lane, Santa Susana - often referred to by the many grandchildren as "The House on The Hill". Norton's 80th Birthday party, at their home in Camarillo, will be fondly remembered by all who were able to attend, as one of the final gatherings for those who loved him. Norton loved Jazz and Blues and he and Mary Ann frequently attended various clubs and festival to hear live music. One of his favorites was the Playboy Jazz Festival. He and Mary Ann were always on the go attending or visiting museums, live theaters, street fairs, etc., often in the company of long time good friends Mike and Peggy Bevington. Norton was an avid science fiction reader and kept and re-read every paperback he owned. (Much to Mary Ann's chagrin.) Books were a very big part of Norton's life. Norton was very fond of his dogs. There was hardly a time he did not have one. He so enjoyed walking Bentley and it was not uncommon to find them asleep together in his chair. Bentley filled many hours with comfort, love and a sense of "all is right with the world" even as life was greatly slowing down for Norton. Norton had a great sense of humor and was a real kidder. He was a kind, generous and caring man. He was loyal to his friends and family, and tremendously devoted to his wife. His smile, bright blue eyes and quirky sense of humor, will forever be remembered by his family. He will be greatly missed by many friends and family who loved and admired him. Service for Norton Holstrom will be held Saturday, November 2, 2013 at12:30 PM - Oakwood Memorial Park, 22601 Lassen Street, Chatsworth, CA 91311. Celebration of Life Gathering to be held at 4:00 PM at the Recreation Center at Leisure Village, 200 Leisure Village Drive, Camarillo, CA 93012.