BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—After decades at Norton’s Flowers, Sue Stander will officially retire on December 31, 2025, marking the end of an era for one of Bucyrus’ most trusted and comforting shops.

Sue began her journey at Norton’s in 1977. Over the years, she became not just the face of the business, but a steady presence in the community — someone families turned to for weddings, funerals, proms, holidays, and every moment in between. Her work has quietly become part of the memories of generations here.

Sue’s Message to the Community

Sue recently released an announcement thanking Bucyrus for its loyalty and support throughout her career. She shared how much it has meant to serve local families and expressed her full confidence in the shop’s future.

She announced that Kip and Katie Wentling will be taking over ownership. Sue believes they share her values and will continue the traditions that matter most to Norton’s customers.

A celebration honoring Sue will take place during Candlelight Christmas on Thursday, December 4th from 5–8 p.m. The event will give the community a chance to shop, meet the new owners, look through pieces of Norton’s history, and give Sue the appreciation she deserves.

Reflections From Those Who Worked Beside Her

Talking with her longtime employees makes one thing clear: Sue hasn’t just built a business — she’s built a family.

Some employees have been there more than 20 years, many of them learning the trade directly from her. They describe Sue as steady, generous, and someone who always seemed to know exactly what a customer needed. More than one person said the same thing: customers trust Sue because she understands them.

Her staff said Sue taught them the craft, but even more, she taught them how to treat people. She set the tone for how Norton’s operates — with care, quality, and a whole lot of heart. They also shared that the job is far more physical than people think: lifting, prepping, processing flowers, long hours, and seasons that push them to their limits. But they take pride in the work because Sue always did.

The Community’s Voice

The appreciation doesn’t stop at the shop doors. The people of Bucyrus have their own memories of Sue, and one comment came up again and again:

“Sue never missed an event. She always brought flowers for display.”

It’s a simple statement, but it captures exactly who she is — someone who showed up, quietly supported everything, and made sure even the smallest community gathering felt a little more special.

A Lasting Impact

From celebrations to goodbyes, Norton’s Flowers has been part of Bucyrus for generations, and Sue has been at the center of it all. Her employees say she’ll be missed every single day, not just for her work, but for her presence, her consistency, and the way she always had the answers.

As she looks toward retirement, the people who know her best say they hope she finally gets something she’s never really allowed herself before: time to put herself first.

Norton’s Flowers will continue, but Sue’s imprint — her work ethic, her generosity, and her heart for the community — will stay with Bucyrus long after December 2025.