Music was the order of most days at the Rhodes house in South Greensburg. “Dad would play guitar and sing. My mother would harmonize while she was doing dishes,” Cathi Rhodes said. “I thought everyone grew up this way. I’d go to some of my friends’ houses, and I’d say
“As far as I’m concerned, this is for us, not just me. I think he would be very proud and like me, very surprised.” The medal recognises Norton s integral part in establishing the Hampden Recycle Centre Top Tip Shop, a monthly market, and a heritage trail map, as well as rescuing the town’s Rural Women group when it was in danger of closure. She also volunteered for the Hampden Hall committee as well as the town’s library, promotions group, 130-year celebration committee, and Hampden Community Energy. Norton and her husband also organised a concert at the Hampton Presbyterian Church to convince church authorities to retain the premises as a cultural centre in 2012, and jointly received the Waitaki District Citizens Award in 2017.
Queen Service Medal recipient believes honour also belongs to late husband stuff.co.nz - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from stuff.co.nz Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.