Max Norman

(From Parker Mortuary)

Gerald Max Norman, age 80 of Joplin, MO passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 3rd, 2023 at the Communities of Wildwood in Joplin, MO after a short illness.

Born September 5, 1942 in Joplin, MO to the late Gerald Oliver Norman and Mary Margaret (Copple) Norman. He graduated from Joplin High School in 1960.









Max was honored to serve in the US military for much of his adult life, starting in 1960 with a four year enlistment to the United States Marine Corps, resulting with an honorable discharge. He then served as a Staff Sergeant in the Marine Corps Reserves. He also served in the US Navy Seabees; US Naval Reserves PO1, ending his military career with official retirement on October 1st 1993. Lastly he served the US Coast Guard Auxiliary as a Vessel Examiner.

He married Judith Phillips in 1962 and to that marriage one daughter was born. They divorced in 1965. He married Billie Snip in 1969, and to that marriage a son was born. They divorced in 2000.

Max was also a restaurateur, and owned Scooter’s Pizza in Joplin, MO and Webb City, MO. After selling his pizza restaurants, he chose an esteemed Union career with the Teamsters, as a road driver for Yellow Freight Systems, driving over 4M accident free miles before retiring.

He also owned several semi-trucks, which he leased to CFI in Joplin, and lastly leasing his fleet to Prime Trucking, Springfield, MO.

He was a member of Central City Christian Church, the American Legion Post 13, Scottish Rite, and Abou Ben Adhem Shriners.

Survivors include a son, Scott Norman of Lee’s Summit, MO, and a daughter, Tamara Dellinger of Springdale, AR. Grandchildren include Greg, Gage, Julia, Derek (Kyley), Josh (Cali), Preston and Taylor. Great Grandchildren include; Arlie, Harris and Boston. Also surviving is a sister, Debbie Wills of Joplin. Nieces Lauren, Emilee, Olivia and Laura, and a Nephew, Calvin. Great Nieces Alaya and Camryn and Great Nephews Jacob and Lincoln.

Funeral services with Masonic Funeral Rites will be performed on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at 12:00 PM at Parker Mortuary in Joplin with burial to follow with full Military Honors at Fidelity Cemetery near Carthage with Fred Ferguson, Greg Gilbreth, Greg Norman, and Gage Norman, serving as pallbearers. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Tuesday, September 12th beginning at 11:00 AM at the mortuary.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.