Norman Russell Shove

Norman Russell Shove, 82, of 109 Dawson Ave., West Haven died at Connecticut Hospice in Branford on Feb. 17, 2004 after a brief illness. He was born in New Haven on Nov. 26, 1921, son of the late John and Mae (Young) Shove. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to West Haven. In 1939, Norman graduated from the West Haven High School. He enlisted in the Merchant Marines, in 1942, shortly after the United States entered World War II. He served on various ships, transporting service men, medical personnel and supplies throughout the world. He met his future wife, Jean Orchard, in Cardiff Wales, in 1945, prior to receiving an honorable discharge. He worked for 35 years for the Coke-a-Cola Bottling Company, as a route manager and supervisor. Norman was active in the Methodist Church of West Haven for over 60 years. He was also active in the Republican Party in West Haven, and was recognized as ''Republican of the Year,'' in 2000. He was Chairman of the Third District's Civic and Social Association; a member of the RTM; a member of the Redevelopment Committee of West Haven - to revitalize Savin Rock; commissioner of the Housing Authority; and, he served on the Board of Tax Review for over twenty years. He was also a member of the American Legion. In his leisure time, he enjoyed watching a ball game, walking along the beach, and visiting with family and friends. Besides his wife, Jean, of 56 years, he leaves behind his three children: Norman Kenneth Shove, Shirley Sisson and Pamela Hunter, his two grandchildren: Edwin and Jennifer Sisson, son-in-law, Douglas Hunter, and daughter-in-law, Susan Hathaway. He is survived by his brothers, Gordon and Elmer, his sisters, Ada Schilpp and Adele Anderson and numerous nephews and nieces. His sister, Irma Thomson and his brother, Kenneth predeceased him. Norman will be remembered as a kind, gentle, humble man who valued hard work, and who faced life's challenges with courage and optimism. He loved his family and friends, his church and his community. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will endure. Family and friends may call at BEECHER & BENNETT TAYLOR FUNERAL HOME, 410 Campbell Ave., West Haven on Thursday (TODAY) from 4 - 7 p.m. Funeral service will be at the First United Methodist Church, West Haven on Friday at 10 a.m. Burial with military honors will be in Beaverdale Memorial Park. Memorial contributions for Norman may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 89 Center St., West Haven, CT 06516 or to Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405.