A native Staten Islander, Ed died there in Todt Hill July 9, 2010.
Ed prepared for his life’s work in business by majoring in economics at Princeton. As a member of the crew team, he received the Coaches’ Medal, "given to that senior who showed the most spirit." And Ed manifested that spirit in everything he did after that.
He joined the Marines and served and fought on Guadalcanal, Guam, and Okinawa. He was discharged as a captain.
After working as a paint-manufacturing technician, he joined his father in creating Norton & Son. In 1953 they acquired the Muralo Paint Co. of Bayonne, N.J., where he became president and eventually chairman of the board.
Ed golfed at Richmond County Country Club. He was a member of the Staten Island Savings Bank, Pamrapo Bank, and the Windmill Alliance. Throughout his life he was known for his extensive generosity.
Ed’s wife of 57 years, the former Mary F. Scrymser, died in 2002. He is survived by his daughter, three sons, 10 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. They remember him for his selfless attitude and concern for others. We offer them our sympathy.