Norman K. “Ken” Norris

March 29, 1948 – February 20, 2026

 

Norman K. Norris, known to most as Ken, of Sullivan, Missouri, passed away at the age of 77. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rita M. Volkert Norris; and his parents, C. Norman Norris and Florence S. Andrews Norris Mason.

 

He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Whitchurch, and her husband, Ray; his honorary son and nephew, Jonathan T. Volkert; his sister, Barbara Norris Hamilton; as well as many nieces and nephews.

 

Ken was a complicated man who valued his privacy and spoke little. He expressed care through action rather than sentiment, and beneath the gruff exterior was a heart softer than he would ever admit.

 

That softer side was most visible in his love of animals. There wasn’t a stray cat or dog that couldn’t count on a bowl of food or a warm place to land in his presence. A man who cares for animals so instinctively leaves a quiet but lasting mark on the world.

 

Ken showed up for his family in times of need. It may not have always come wrapped in gentleness or fanfare, but no one who needed help was turned away.

 

He enjoyed working in the yard, tending his garden, woodworking, weight training in his younger years, and continually learning something new. He valued self-reliance, hard work, and doing things his way, even if it took longer.

 

Ken will be cremated in accordance with his wishes. No formal services will be held.

 

He loved in his own way, and that was enough.