Born: Nov. 9, 1924

Died: April 8, 2013

Everett Norman Ferris, 88, of Niles, Mich., passed peacefully from this life to the next at his home, on April 8, 2013. He was the son of Nelson Everett, and Elva (Norman) Ferris.

Norman’s life began on Sept. 11, 1924 in Buchanan, Mich. He graduated from Buchanan High School in 1943, joined the Army and served his country faithfully to the end of WWII.

As a lifelong learner, Norm enjoyed his work as a butcher and was the proud owner of Ferris Custom Butchering in Galien, Mich. For many years, Norm cherished and built on the relationships that he made with co-workers and customers alike. His hobbies and interests were varied. Norman was an avid craftsman and made a habit of creating Native American tee pees, canvas totes and leather items for his enjoyment. He loved to garden, travel, and he deeply loved and cared for his family and friends. Norman was also a faithful member of the Buchanan Christian Church.

Norm married Joyce Ketchum on Sunday morning, June 7, 1959 during the sermon at the Buchanan Church of Christ, in front of an unsuspecting congregation. The happy couple took up residence in Niles where they delighted in nearly 54 years of marriage.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Florence Medlin. In addition to his beloved bride, Joyce, Norm is survived by his brother Raymond, his children Norma; Sharold and his wife Julie; Danny and his wife Jenny; Bill; Hope; Heidi and her husband Tucker Curtis; eight grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren.

The family will greet friends and relatives at Hoven Funeral Home in Buchanan, Mich., on Wednesday April 10, from 6-8 p.m. The funeral will be held on Thursday April 11 at the Buchanan Christian Church at 11 a.m. with Nathan Babcock officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to Buchanan Christian Church and Hospice at Home.

Online condolences may be made at www.hovenfunerals.com