Norman C. Auten

Norman C. Auten, age 76, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 21, 2025. He was born on November 22, 1949, in Tecumseh, Michigan. Norm was a resident of Britton until attending college at Eastern Michigan University. Later, he lived in Livonia and Plymouth, though he always considered his family’s cottage on Wamplers Lake his favorite place to be. Norman was born to Raymond and Rosemary Auten. He is survived by his brother, Terry of St. Augustine, Florida, and his sister, Lois, of Manchester, Michigan. Norman met his beloved wife, Susie, while attending Eastern Michigan University. They were married for 54 years and shared a deep commitment to one another and to their life’s work in education. Norman devoted 40 years to teaching Special Education, serving students at Novi Schools, Hawthorn Center, and Lincoln Consolidated Schools. He also sponsored after-school chess and geography clubs, enriching the lives of countless students. Two wonderful children blessed their marriage. Adrienne Anne Ceccacci of Portland, Oregon, inspired her father’s love of travel and the outdoors, taking him to breathtaking places such as Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe. He delighted in her photographs from scenic hiking trips around the world. Amber Leigh Grandinett of Canton, Michigan, shared an appreciation with her father for country western and blues music, often finding thoughtful ways to celebrate the interests that brought him joy. One of Norman’s most cherished experiences was attending a live performance of “A Prairie Home Companion”, where he had the honor of personally meeting Garrison Keillor. He enjoyed dinner with the cast, toured the dressing rooms, and joined in after-show celebrations. Norman’s four grandsons—Tyler, Angelo, Dylan, and Brody—brought him endless joy. Watching them grow, hearing their laughter, and knowing they were healthy meant everything to him. Each grandson’s unique personality, warm smile, and boundless energy filled his life with purpose and happiness. His sons-in-laws, Scott and Jeff, complemented their wives’ devotion to their families. Norman deeply respected and took great pride in both men for their intelligence, hard work, and character. After a fall left Norman paralyzed, he faced life’s challenges with remarkable strength. With the unwavering love and support of Susie, family, friends, and his strong faith in God’s plan, he accepted his circumstances, developed a positive outlook, and found peace. The Woods was chosen as Norman’s final resting place—a peaceful setting near his home, where he enjoyed quiet walks through the trees with his faithful dog, Rocky. May Norman rest in the place that brought him comfort, reflection, and peace. Private cremation services were arranged by the Vermeulen-Sajewski Funeral Home in Plymouth. If you wish to leave a special memory or a message of condolence, please use the Share a Memory tab on this webpage.

Norman C. Auten

November 22, 1949 - December 21, 2025