Paul F. Norton, an emeritus professor and founder of the University of Massachusetts’ art department, died Aug. 26, 2007, after a short period of declining health. He was 90.

Norton majored in mathematics at Oberlin College, and served in the Navy from 1942 to 1946. In 1947, he received an M.F.A., and, in 1952, a Ph.D. in art from Princeton. He then joined the art department of Pennsylvania State University.

In the late 1950s, the University of Massachusetts in Amherst hired him to establish and head an art department. He successfully developed a department that gave opportunities for artists and art historians to teach and for students to learn from, and work with, teachers of high quality. In addition to many scholarly articles, Norton wrote books on architecture, and after his retirement at age 76, one on stained glass windows in Rhode Island churches.

Norton excelled at sports his entire life. He coached the Amherst College women’s squash team for many years, and assisted with the men’s team. He was still playing tennis three months before his death.

Norton is survived by Alison, his wife of 65 years; two daughters; and six grandchildren. A son predeceased him in 2001.

Graduate memorials are prepared by the APGA.

Graduate Class of 1952