Norman Troy Hammons Jr. age 48, of Watervliet, left this side of eternity on Friday, June 12, 2015, from Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo, MI. He was born in Watervliet on July 21, 1966 to Norman "Troy" Sr. and Estelle (Baxley) Hammons, as the youngest of three. He married the love of his life Sherry (Merick) Hammons of Watervliet on October 12, 1985. The nuances of Norman's life could fill volumes of books beyond this newspaper and farther beyond the confines of this article, but he could be described by the summation of one word: Courageous. In 1991, Norman found himself a victim of a tragic car accident that would forever change the course of his and his family's life. Through the daily struggle of living as a quadriplegic, he taught us how to fully live , truly love and really matter . Maybe you've never had the opportunity to spend time in the great outdoors with Norm, or sweat alongside him as he roofed houses, painted cars or worked in the paper mill. Maybe you've never had the pleasure of  spending time in prayer or worship with him on a Sunday morning. And maybe you've never had the chance to see him play guitar in his band. But as you're reading this now, take the time to pause and thank God for the simple joys in life. Be grateful to our Creator for the many things we take for granted. Then ask yourself these three questions: Am I living fully? Am I loving openly? Am I living each day  with purpose? Today, Norm is standing before God in the comfort of knowing he can confidently and courageously answer "yes" to all three. Norman is survived by his wife, Sherry; his son Jerret (Monica Janssen) Hammons,  and his grandchildren, London and Jack; his sisters, Winona (Justin) Corp, Dianna Morlock and her husband Tony, who Norm regarded as a brother; and 15 nieces and nephews. Norm was preceded in death by his parents and his father in law, Tom Merick. Funeral services will be held at 4pm on Tuesday, June 16, 2015 at River of Life Church at 8712 Red Arrow Hwy, Watervliet, MI. The family will greet those whose lives Norman inspired from 3pm – 4pm, prior to the service.  Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet is assisting Norman's family with arrangements.  You may leave a memory for Norman's family at hutchinsfuneral.com