Along with his business, Norton was an active donor to multiple causes and served on numerous boards. He was a strong supporter both financially and spiritually of Missouri Western University, especially in athletics.

Missouri Western President Elizabeth Kennedy said she will remember all the support he gave to the athletic department while supporting student-athletes, even opening his house for dinner.

“Losing Bob is a loss we can never make up for,” Kennedy said. “He really provided such great leadership and support in such a genuine and caring way,”

One of Norton’s passions was aviation, as he made many trips from Rosecrans Memorial Airport.

Gabe Forney, managing director of Rosecrans, said Norton was always very friendly and a mainstay at the airport. In addition to his positive attitude, he was also vital for financial events such as the airshow.

“The air show we have, we can’t charge for admission, so we rely on people who have businesses in the community to donate to the air show, and he was always willing to do that,” said Forney. “Bob will be greatly missed…he was a great mentor to people in the community and was very generous…always ready to say hello.”