Ralph Bennett Norris Jr.

A lifelong resident of Utah, Ralph graduated from South High School and pursued further education at the University of Utah. During his college years, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving proudly in the 144th Evac Hospital from 1958 until his honorable discharge in 1964, just prior to the birth of his first son, Russell. This marked the beginning of a dynamic, multi-faceted career. Ralph worked as a pole climber for Utah Power and Light, became a real estate broker, and financed fleet vehicles and diesel trucks nationwide with Associates Finance Company. Eventually, he channeled his entrepreneurial spirit into owning and operating NORCO Motors for more than two decades until his retirement.

Ralph possessed a lifelong passion for automobiles and motorsports, constantly seeking new adventures for his family. Whether riding dirt bikes, embarking on frequent trips to Lake Powell for camping and waterskiing, snowmobiling in the Uinta’s, or riding jet skis, go-carts, and even a hovercraft, these activities were his way of bringing the family together. Through these shared experiences, he instilled the values of hard work, loyalty, resilience, compassion, and love, all delivered with his ever-present, sharp sense of humor.

On June 21, 2001, Ralph married Cathy, the love of his life. Together in retirement, they lived life to the fullest, restoring vintage cars, attending car shows, and above all, treasuring every moment spent with their grandchildren.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Cathy, his eldest son Russell, his stepson Tyler, his dear cousin Dyann, and many close friends.

He is survived by his son, Brendon (Cathy) Norris, his beloved grandchildren Russell (Tori), Preston, Paige, Trevor, Kilie, Jace and two great grandchildren Henry and Lily. Also, his bonus children Pam, Stephanie, Wes, Tracy, Steve, Shelly, Lesa, Dave, Christy, Charlie, Vicki, Eugene and his bonus 13 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, and 6 great great grandchildren.2

Funeral services will be held July 17. 2026, at Wasatch Lawn Memorial on 3300 South Highland Drive, Salt Lake City Utah. A viewing from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. and the funeral will start at 11:00 a.m.

The Norris Family would also like to commend the care and compassion that he received while at the Ridge Memory Care Facility. You were awesome and he loved his time there. Also, a special thanks to Annika with Suncrest Hospice.