Norris Doyle

Some people achieve greatness by some notable act, something that is recognized in the newspapers or mentioned on the radio. Others, like Norris Doyle, are quiet heroes, whose great deeds are softly given to the people fortunate enough to have him in their lives. He was a hardworking, kindhearted man, who throughout his life strove to be the best husband, father, grandfather and friend possible. Norris was also a loyal member of the Presque Isle community for his entire life, and he generously gave of his time and talents wherever needed.

Under the leadership of President Warren G. Harding, America entered into the 1920s with confidence. The politics of the time were turbulent as ever, yet industry had made the U.S. economy surge. The decade would be forever remembered for its carefree and decadent lifestyle. Stanton Doyle and his wife, Mabel (King), were far removed from these things that characterized the 1920s. They lived a very modest life in Presque Isle, Michigan, where Stanton was a Township Supervisor and did odd jobs around the community, while Mabel worked hard caring for the house and their sons, Ray and Robert. On May 17, 1922, the couple delighted in welcoming the birth of their third son, Norris, who was born at his grandmother’s house. After the arrival of their two youngest children, Jack and Ruth, the Doyle household was a bustling place with five children.

Although his family was pretty poor, Norris enjoyed a typical childhood of the time, growing up in a rural community near Grand Lake. He and his brother, Robert, were the closest of the siblings, and Norris fostered a special relationship with his Uncle Norris, who taught him many valuable skills that he carried with him throughout life. For school, Norris attended the rural schoolhouse, where he was paid 5 cents for building fires in the wood stove to heat the school, and helping to stock the ice house. Like many young men of the time, Norris left high school before graduating to enlist in the U.S. Navy, serving his country during World War II. He shipped out on October 17, 1941, and became a 1st Class Metal Smith and a “Tin Can Sailor” as they were called. Norris proudly served upon the USS Hogan for 2 years in the Atlantic Theatre and about 6 months in the Pacific Theatre. He then returned to the states and helped put the USS Willard Keith (DD-775) in commission and after leaving her in Okinawa, he headed home on September 10, 1945, and received his honorable discharge on October 21, 1945. Shortly after, Norris returned to Alpena High School and proudly earned his high school diploma.

Although the service took Norris miles from home, a certain young lady stayed on his mind the entire time he was gone; his sweetheart, Ruth Mildred Barrow. The two were happily married on February 27, 1945, in Denver, Colorado, and after the war, they settled into married life together at East Grand Lake. Norris and Ruth spent the next 67 years together, raising their two beautiful daughters, Susan and Bonnie, and sharing many wonderful memories as a family. A devoted family man, Norris worked hard to provide the best for his family, working as a Maintenance Foreman at Presque Isle Corporation. Yet, he was never too busy to spend time with his girls when he got home. His girls have many fond memories of playing catch, Frisbee and pool with their Dad, and when they got older, he took them boating, fishing and water skiing on Grand Lake. Bonnie says her father also taught her how to be level-headed and stay calm, some very good life lessons.

In 1984, Norris retired at the age of 62. He had a plethora of hobbies he enjoyed, which he now had more time to devote to. A man of many skills, he was extremely good at welding, carpentry, mechanics and millworking, and he used his talents to do many home projects, but also generously helped others in his community. Norris spent countless hours in his workshop restoring a military jeep and building a grandfather clock and cider press. He took great pride in his work and they were truly works of art when finished. Although not his workshop, Norris enjoyed being the in kitchen too, baking homemade bread or simply relaxing with a cup of coffee and listening to country western music. Being retired also meant that Norris and Ruth could do more traveling. With their daughter Bonnie and her family living in Plano, Texas, it was a perfect place for the couple to escape to during the winter months in Michigan, and enjoy time with their grandchildren. Some winters they would spend time at Panama City Beach, Florida enjoying the ocean. At home, Norris was active in his community as a founding member of the East Grand Lake Fire Department, a member of the Alpena-Hopper Lodge #199 and the “Four Stacks APO Veterans” and he was a 32nd Degree Mason.

An extremely cheerful and friendly man, Norris touched everyone’s life that he came into contact with and he will be deeply missed.

Norris Valentine Doyle II, 89, of Alpena, formerly of Presque Isle, MI died on Saturday, April 21, 2012. Surviving is his wife of 67 years, Ruth; a daughter, Bonnie (Tim) Mahar of Plano, TX; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Bunting, a sister, Ruth, and three brothers, Ray, Robert, & Jack.

Family and friends will gather on Thursday, May 3, at Grand Lake Community Chapel from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Robert Case officiating. The family chose McWilliams Funeral Home – Alpena to assist them. Memorial donations may be made to Grand Lake Community Chapel. Please visit Norris’ personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you may share a memory or sign the on-line guest book.