Donald "Don" was born to Alphord and Bernice Norris March 28, 1943, in Dexter New Mexico. He was the first of seven children, four brothers and two sisters. Edgar, John, Patsy, Linda, Ronald, and Larry.
Don attended Chowchilla area schools and graduated from Chowchilla High School in 1962, and earned his Future Farmers of America (FFA) and State Farmer Certificates for Angus Beef projects.
After graduating high school, Don went to work for Hooper Farms, until he joined the Army in May of 1963. Don completed basic training at Fort Ord and then went onto Jump School at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was then assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg. While at Fort Bragg Don was trained in artillery. He also served in the Dominican Republic and parachuted into the country during the captured college student issues. Don served his country proud for three years until his active duty Honorable Service ended.
Coming back to Chowchilla, Don went to work for California Alfalfa Cube Company. He attended church at El Nido Missionary Baptist church. This is when he meet the love of his life Nancy Schindler.
Don and Nancy married in the El Nido Missionary Church on February 10th of 1968. Together they raised three children, Deana, Kevin, and Angela.
Don changed jobs to spend more time with his family and worked as an installer of well pumps and went on to further his work as a inventory controller.
Thru ups and downs in his health Don always had a smile and a friendly word for his friends and family.
May his wife Nancy and his children, and all his family and friends find comfort knowing he is in Glory.
A Visitation Service for Donald will be held Sunday, May 4, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, 140 South 6th Street, Chowchilla, California.
A Funeral Service will occur Monday, May 5, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 140 South 6th Street, Chowchilla, California.
Don will be laid to rest following the Funeral Service Monday, May 5, 2025 from 1:30 PM at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, 32053 McCabe Rd, Gustine, California.
Please join us in remembering Donald Lee Norris by visiting our Memorial at www.wordenchapel.com
Through this site, we invite you to view and share cherished photos and videos, share fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Norris Family or share the obituary with others via social media and email. Arrangements are under the direction of Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, Lori Whatley, Funeral Arranger.
