Donna’s Real Father

Going through what is mostly a book of pictures of LaDonn Russell Norton as a young child, I found a picture of LaDonn Russell Norton Sr and Jr. I didn’t remember that mom’s biological dad was named LaDonn. I had her father as William Norton based on some handwritten notes. I am happy to get this corrected.

Donna Elizabeth’s biological father was LaDonn Russell Norton Sr.

Donna’s half brother, LaDonn Russell Jr (Russell) was taken away by his grandparents after his father died in 1929. Even though they did not live together as young children, Russell was very important in mom’s life. She referred to him as her brother.

A bit of history on the topic-

Trulia Lingo (Born Box, married Norton) went to work for the Norton family, soon after graduating from nursing school. I don’t now the details for certain. I know she was hired to take care of someone’s ailing wife. It is possible she took care of LaDonn Sr. Wife. We know for certain that LD Sr’s first wife died when LD Jr was very young. 

In the book of LaDonn Jr pictures there are also a couple of telegrams from LaDonn Sr to Trulia. They are addressed to the hospital where Trulia worked.

Trulia married LD Sr. LD junior (called by his middle name, Russell) lived with them. 

LaDonn Sr was killed in an automobile accident in November of 1929, when Donna was only 11 months old. Trulia was left with a baby and toddler. I don’t know if she was still working as a traveling nurse at the time, if she went back to nursing to support her little family or if she wasn’t working while LaDonn Sr was alive.

For some reason, Russell’s grandparents insisted that he come live with them. they sued for custody and won. Donna’s half brother moved away to live with grandparents. It was a bitter time for Trulia and Donna. Later in life she and Russell would reunite and become very close. Brian Russell Chalmers Henrichs is a namesake of this Russell. 

LaDonn Sr, right side. 

Far right - LaDonn Sr