Irene L. Norton, age 100, of Houghton Lake passed away on Friday December 15, 2017 at Maple Ridge Living Center in Lake City. 

Irene was born on June 23, 1917 in Hope, Michigan to Thomas and Laura (Wendt) LaVeque. She was married on September 16, 1937 in Midland to Leland E. Norton. Irene retired from Midland Probate Court where she had worked as a Juvenile Officer and Court Administrator for 33 years. She was a charter member of the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Midland, she was named Woman of the Year by the Midland Kiwanis, she was one of the originators that started the Midland Harbor House. Irene enjoyed needlepoint, crocheting and baking and was very dedicated to her family especially her grandchildren. 

Irene is survived by her daughter; Nancy (Thomas W.) Rose of Houghton Lake, daughter-in-law; V. Christine Norton of Syracuse, NY, grandchildren; Thomas C. (Terri) Rose of Grayling, Andrew W. Rose of Houghton Lake, Lee (Monica) Norton of Syracuse, NY, Marleigh Norton of Boston, MA; great-grandchildren;  Allison Rose, Gweneth Rose and  Valerie Norton. Irene was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 75 years Leland E. Norton, son, Ronald L. Norton, brother, Wilford T. LaVeque and sister, Mary E. Walker. 

Private graveside services will be held in the spring. Interment will be in Lake Township Cemetery. Christler Funeral Home, Houghton Lake Chapel is serving the family. Condolences can be sent to the family online at www.christler-holdship.com 

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