Stephen Kent Norris

Stephen Kent Norris Stephen Kent Norris, 64, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away March 11, 2013 after a year-long battle with ALS. He was born May 10, 1948 to Wendell and Helen (Parker) Norris in Rochester, Indiana, who preceded him in death. Steve was the fourth of six Norris sons: Edward (Susan) Norris of Trinidad, Colorado, David Norris of Orlando, FL, Maynard Norris of Jackson, MI, Byron (Jamie) Norris of Peru, IN, and Dan (Karen) Norris of Philadelphia, PA. Steve developed a strong work ethic growing up on a dairy farm in Richland Center, Indiana with his five brothers. He attended Richland Center Schools, then Rochester High School for his senior year, where he was the salutatorian of his class. His love for basketball began at an early age and continued throughout his lifetime. Steve was a star basketball player for Rochester High School, earning a spot on the Indiana All-Star Basketball Team. He went on to play basketball at Butler University in Indianapolis, where he earned his degree in Physical Education and Mathematics and a Masters in School Administration. Steve excelled during his career at Butler, playing under Tony Hinkle, who nicknamed him "Short Spokes". He was a two time Most Valuable Player for the Men's Basketball team. During his senior year he was also recognized as the Most Outstanding Student, and received the Hilton U. Brown Award. Steve was inducted into the Butler University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001 for both Basketball and Track and Field. He was also inducted into the Rochester High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2003. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Steve worked at the Pentagon during the Vietnam War. Following his service, Steve spent the majority of his career as a Math teacher at Carmel High School, where he also coached Track and Field. Steve was a strong Christian, serving as an usher in his church, and would be up early every morning reading his Bible. Steve is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Shari (Mattix) Norris, son Brian (Caryn) Norris, and daughters Angie (Zack) Ritz, Heather (Carlo) Girolamo, and Alison (Jeremy) Stevens. He also leaves behind his 8 grandchildren Aubry, Emily and Macy Norris; Joshua, Zoe, and Travis Ritz; and Tommy and Benji Girolamo, his 5 brothers, and many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions can be made to the ALS Association through their website www.alsa.org.