I'd not seen Russ since the 1960's, but never forgot him. He had a major impact on my life (advising and encouraging that I seek and accept a Navy ROTC scholarship, which it turned out set the trajectory for my life). Russ was the rock of Needham's 1964 League Championship soccer team (our senior year), playing stopper fullback and anchoring our defense. Wouldn't have won without him. He led the life I'd once seen for myself -- a math teacher and a soccer coach (following in the footsteps of our Needham High teacher models -- Don Brock and Fred Preston). Happy for your rich life, Russ. RIP.
Russ was a friend in high school but after that we lost touch. I have often wondered about the trajectory of his life. I am pleased to know he had a loving family, and a rich & fulfilling life. Rest In Peace, my friend.
When I saw Russ at our 50th reunion, he still had that warm, compassionate smile and joyful spirit he always had when we were together whether on the soccer field, or in class, or just around & about socializing Our spaghetti dinners were always uplifting, hosted by both Russ's and Phil Atwood's parents.
Prior to any game he was always firing us up, inspiring us on toward another victory. For an opposing forward--more likely to bounce off him than to get around him, he must have appeared formidable; Russ's determination, agility, and surprisingly, deceptive speed gave our forwards and midfielders confidence in knowing that he would get the ball up to them to carry the game into striking position. During our first two college summers we played together in weekly games, the teams made up of both former and current NHS players as well as some of my college team members and other area college players. After then I hadn't seen Russ until the 50th reunion when we had time for a long chat, during which I learned of his teaching and coaching career and was reacquainted with the word "windsprints"--Coach Fred Preston's grueling end of practrice drills around the field. That teaching & coaching would be Russ's forte seemed so natural then. Thank you, Russ, for your years of enduring friendship and inspiration. RIP
I continue to have good memories of playing soccer at NHS. Russ Norton was one who added to the positive impact of the team as a whole. Best wishes to other members who are still with us.
John Semple
Russ made our time on the soccer team more fun. My deepest sympathies to his family on his passing.
Douglas Moses
I'd not seen Russ since the 1960's, but never forgot him. He had a major impact on my life (advising and encouraging that I seek and accept a Navy ROTC scholarship, which it turned out set the trajectory for my life). Russ was the rock of Needham's 1964 League Championship soccer team (our senior year), playing stopper fullback and anchoring our defense. Wouldn't have won without him. He led the life I'd once seen for myself -- a math teacher and a soccer coach (following in the footsteps of our Needham High teacher models -- Don Brock and Fred Preston). Happy for your rich life, Russ. RIP.
Robert Newbert
Russ was a friend in high school but after that we lost touch. I have often wondered about the trajectory of his life. I am pleased to know he had a loving family, and a rich & fulfilling life. Rest In Peace, my friend.
Francis (Frank) Brown
When I saw Russ at our 50th reunion, he still had that warm, compassionate smile and joyful spirit he always had when we were together whether on the soccer field, or in class, or just around & about socializing Our spaghetti dinners were always uplifting, hosted by both Russ's and Phil Atwood's parents.
Prior to any game he was always firing us up, inspiring us on toward another victory. For an opposing forward--more likely to bounce off him than to get around him, he must have appeared formidable; Russ's determination, agility, and surprisingly, deceptive speed gave our forwards and midfielders confidence in knowing that he would get the ball up to them to carry the game into striking position. During our first two college summers we played together in weekly games, the teams made up of both former and current NHS players as well as some of my college team members and other area college players. After then I hadn't seen Russ until the 50th reunion when we had time for a long chat, during which I learned of his teaching and coaching career and was reacquainted with the word "windsprints"--Coach Fred Preston's grueling end of practrice drills around the field. That teaching & coaching would be Russ's forte seemed so natural then. Thank you, Russ, for your years of enduring friendship and inspiration. RIP
Douglas Chamberlin
I continue to have good memories of playing soccer at NHS. Russ Norton was one who added to the positive impact of the team as a whole. Best wishes to other members who are still with us.
Douglas Chamberlin
Thanks to John, Doug, and Frank for their comments. Helped me to relive some of those days as a team.
Sheldon Cooper
Thanks to all who commented. Brought back many great memories. Hope all are doing well.