RAY NORTON OBITUARY
It is with great sadness that I write this obituary because I have been friends with Ray Norton for the last twenty-five years, and so it came as a great shock to learn of his passing away. He was almost 75 years old.
He worked for Midland Red at Dudley Garage offices, but undertook relief conducting, which I know he enjoyed. When Dudley Garage became part of West Midlands PTE, Ray moved with them but later transferred to the Walsall offices of WMPTE. Unfortunately, he was forced to retire early due to ill health.
Ray was a long time member and supporter of the Museum, having joined BaMMOT shortly after its formation. Besides taking part in some of our early but long lasting fund raising initiatives, he also donated many bus related items including photographs he had taken from 1960 onwards. Ray had an enthusiast's mind with regard to Midland Red and was able to give the Museum the benefit of that knowledge. Although he had been a "bus man", his first love was railways, and would visit Severn Valley several times a year.
He had a great love of Britain, where he would take frequent holidays and days out. This was not necessarily by the sea but in small hideaway peaceful places where he could enjoy the beauty of it.
The Ray I knew was a quiet and sensitive man who I shall miss very much.
Condolences to his sister Joy and her husband Dennis.
Mike Jordan
Chapel Lane, Wythall, Worcs B47 6JX
Tel : 01564 826471 e-mail us
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