Nickey Ray “Nick” Norton, 73, of Salix, Iowa, passed away peacefully Sunday, May 25, 2025. A funeral mass will be held Friday, June 6, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., with a visitation 1 hour prior at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Salix, Iowa. Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.  Arrangements are under the direction of Waterbury Funeral Service of Sergeant Bluff. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Legion Post 64, and/or St. Joseph Catholic Church in Nick’s honor.

Nick was born on April 26, 1952, in Sioux City, Iowa, the son of Lawrence and Irma (Miller) Norton. Nick lived a life full of devotion—to his family, his passions, his country, and his Christianity. He graduated from Herbert Hoover High School in San Diego. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1972.  He served as an MP and was honorably discharged and then joined the Sioux City Police Department.  Nick had his own auto body shop and business and also worked at the local meat packing plants.  He also attended Morningside College to take economic classes, which was his favorite subject.

Nick was a man of many talents, painting and repairing cars and classic cars, including his own 1955 Chevy Bel Air. He was known for his craftsmanship and creative spirit. He loved to cook, especially Italian food and tending to his gardens.  A lifelong enthusiast of drag racing, Nick’s passion for engines and speed was matched only by the care he gave to those around him.  He also cared for nature and animals.

Nick is survived by his daughters: Tracey Lewis, Tiffany Carlson and Shaun Norton-Cotto: his son, Trevor Norton; his grandson, Joe Norton, whom he also lovingly raised; brother, Rickey Norton; sister, Lisa Schneiders; grandchildren: Brue, Cole, Kyle, Trinity, Khila, Mia, Drake, Solomon, and Hendrix; and 3 great-grandchildren: Tannis, Oliver, and Summer.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Lawrence and Irma Norton, and his sister, Melanie Pokett-Johnson.

Nick will be remembered for his kind heart, sharp wit, strong hands, and his deep love for his family and community. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the memories he created.

Flowers or donations may be made in Nick’s honor to: USO, American Legion, or St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.