Jean Mary Norton

Jean Mary Norton, 75, of Rhinelander, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, at Rennes Health & Rehab.

A proud lifelong resident of Rhinelander, Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Donald “Red” and Ernestine “Steno” Christiansen; her husband, Jerry Norton; her brother, Peter Christiansen; her sister, Jennifer Ryan; and brothers-in-law Robert Ryan and Mark Smith.

Jean is survived by her sisters, Judy Smith and Joan Bliefernicht (John); sister-in-law Jan Christiansen; nieces and nephews Julie Ryan (Kim Zambon), Paul Ryan (Shannon), Mike Ryan (Stacy), Mark Smith (Susie), David Smith (Winifred), Sarah Smith, Melanie Clodgo (Micah), Todd Christiansen (Alyssa), Eric Christiansen (Jennifer); and Jaymee Hayes as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews who brought her great joy.

After attending school in Rhinelander and later studying in Milwaukee, Jean dedicated more than 30 years to helping others through her work at Rhinelander’s Community House, where she built lasting friendships with clients and coworkers alike. Later, she brought her warmth, gift of conversation, and love of people to her customer service role at Best Bee Brothers.

Jean’s commitment to her community included decades of playing bass clarinet with the Rhinelander Community Band, where she especially enjoyed performing and spending time with her fellow “Band Babes.”

A talented artist, Jean loved painting and drawing, generously sharing her creations with family and friends. She also enjoyed community art fairs, bingo, cribbage, cards, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers.

Jean will be remembered for her mischievous sense of humor, optimistic outlook, generous spirit, and the special connections she made with so many throughout her life.

A gathering will be held on Thursday, July 2, at Hildebrand Funeral Home in Rhinelander, beginning at 3:30 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 4:30 p.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander, Wisconsin, 54501, 715-365-4343. Everyone is invited to leave an online condolence at www.hildebrandrussfh.com.