Alice Ann Norton, age 101, of Princeton, MN, formally of Crookston, MN, died at her home peacefully December 26, 2025 with family members at her side. Alice was born at Tabor, MN on May 16, 1924, the daughter of Ladislaus Joseph “Leslie” and Elsie Ella (Holy) Kliner. Alice was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic faith and received her early years of education at East Grand Forks and Crookston, MN. Alice continued her education at Moorhead Teacher College, now known as Minnesota State University Moorhead. Alice began her teaching career in 1944 at a small country school in rural East Grand Forks, MN. Alice was boarding with a nearby farm family when she met a young man, Thomas “Tom” Norton, who had recently returned home after working for the California Shipbuilding Corporation building Liberty ships in aid of the war effort. Love blossomed for Alice and Tom who were united in marriage on October 21, 1946. Their marriage would be blessed by the births of 8 children. The couple farmed northwest of Euclid, MN until the late-1950’s when they moved to Crookston, MN where they raised their growing family. Alice dedicated her life to Tom, their children, and various teaching assignments including several years at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception grade school in Crookston, MN.
Alice had a passion for the outdoors, and doing gardening and yard work; especially if it meant doing it with Tom and her children. She enjoyed cooking, canning, sewing, knitting, and crocheting. Alice and Tom shared an unconditional love and marriage for 66 years, until Tom’s passing in April 2013. Their 8 children and spouses include: Angela Norton Lagarde (Bill) of Barnes, WI, Sharon Norton Welsh (Leonard) of Plano, TX, Faye Norton of Apple Valley, MN, Bonnie Norton Oldre (Randy) of Minneapolis, MN, Linda Norton Johnson (Tim) of Princeton, MN, Timothy Norton (Michelle) of Rogers, MN, Dorothy Norton Hull (Mike) of Apple Valley, and Mary Norton (Darrell Lindquist) of Apple Valley; 21 grandchildren; and 29 great and great-great grandchildren. Alice leaves several nieces, nephews, and other relatives as she enters the Kingdom of Heaven. Alice was preceded in death by three grandchildren, her parents, and siblings. The Mass of Christian Burial for Alice Ann Norton will be celebrated at Christ Our Light Catholic Parish in Princeton, MN January 10, 2026 at 11:00 AM followed by fellowship at the church. Special thank you to Alice’s care team including Linda, Norma, Sarah, and the St. Croix Hospice staff including, Nurse Alyssa, Aide Michelle, and Music Therapist, Eric for their dedication and kindness. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Alice’s name to St. Croix Hospice info@stcroixhospice.com or the charity of your choice.
Service will be January 10, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Christ Our Light Catholic Parish in Princeton, MN 55371. Cemetery, Internment will be in May 2026 at Calvary Cemetery in Crookston.