Grand Rapids, Michigan · Monday, July 13, 2026· 72°F

GR Native Nancy Norton Skydives with Grandkids at 18

A Grand Rapids native returns to West Michigan to skydive with each grandchild at 18, honoring her late husband's wish.

TL;DR — 20-second summary

Nancy Norton, a Grand Rapids native, continues a family tradition by skydiving with her grandchildren when they turn 18. The jumps at 14,000 feet honor her late husband Chuck 'Papa Chuck' Norton. Family from Florida, Wisconsin, and Michigan gathered in West Michigan for the event.

📍 West Michigan
GR Native Nancy Norton Skydives with Grandkids at 18

Nancy Norton, a Grand Rapids native now living in Florida, returned to West Michigan to continue a family tradition. She skydives with each grandchild when they turn 18, honoring her late husband Chuck "Papa Chuck" Norton's wish. The recent jumps involved grandchildren Adele Bush and Tanner Carlson, who soared to 14,000 feet.

Family members traveled from Florida, Wisconsin, and Michigan to witness the skydiving event. The tradition started years ago, and Norton insists it's a way to keep her husband's memory alive. Each skydiving experience is a milestone for the grandchildren, marking their transition into adulthood.

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The story resonates with Grand Rapids residents as a heartwarming example of family and community bonds. It's a personal tradition rooted in the local area, showcasing the deep ties that families maintain even when living far apart. Norton's dedication to honoring her husband through this unique gesture is a testament to love and legacy.

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