James M. Norton, 77, of Worcester, died peacefully Friday, August 16, 2013 at his home after a courageous 14-year battle with cancer.
     He leaves his wife of 26 years, Paula J. (Pickard) Norton; a daughter, Jennifer Kimball of Hilton Head, S.C., formerly of Mendon; two grandchildren, Meredith and Michael Kimball, both of Mendon; two brothers, Brother John Norton F.S.C. of New Jersey, and Joseph Norton of Hopedale; and many nieces and nephews, including Laurie R. Korajczyk of Billerica and Christopher L. Houde of Saratoga Springs, N.Y. He was predeceased by his three sisters, Rita Norton, Anna Boardman and Theresa Norton, and a brother William Norton.
     Jim was born in Milford, son of Peter J. and Catherine A. (Connell) Norton. He graduated from Saint Mary’s High School in Milford in 1953. After serving in the U.S. Army during the time of the Korean War, he attended Boston College, graduating in 1960.
     Jim was the catcher for the Milford Junior Legion baseball team that went to the national finals in Denver, Colo. in 1952.
     He was a claims adjuster for the Travelers Insurance Co. for 30 years, retiring in 1991.
     Jim was an avid golfer and played at the Green Hill Golf Club for many years. He enjoyed reading and was a devoted fan of New England sports teams.
     Jim was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, where he was an altar server for funeral Masses for more than 20 years.
     There will be a calling hour Tuesday, August 20 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester. The funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m. in Immaculate Conception Church, 353 Grove St., Worcester. Burial will be in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.