David A. Norris

David A. Norris
October 17, 1946 - December 13, 2024

David A. Norris passed away peacefully on December 13, 2024, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. After his diagnosis last Thanksgiving, Dave's unwavering faith gave him strength throughout his cancer journey, inspiring others as he continued to attend church and remain active in his community.

From his early days in Mason City, Iowa, where he was born to Walter and Ida Norris, Dave's journey led him to Chicago. There, he built a career as a Pepsi truck driver serving the South Side, where his strong work ethic and friendly nature made him a familiar face in the communities he served. After 27 dedicated years with Pepsi, Dave and his wife Donna embarked on a new chapter, relocating to Florida. At Home Depot's Commercial Sales division, he spent nearly two decades continuing to demonstrate his exceptional work ethic and commitment to service, greeting everyone with his signature "Big Dave" smile.

It was during these Florida years, at the age of 60, that Dave experienced a profound transformation in his faith journey, guided by his son Brian's witness. Though he initially struggled with the concept of God's forgiveness, saying "But Brian, you don't know what I've done, how can Jesus forgive me?", Dave ultimately opened his heart to accept Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. This decision brought him immense peace and the assurance of eternal life—a peace that carried him through until his final moments. Dave's faith became anchored in Romans 10:9: "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." His story stands as a testament that it's never too late to embrace God's love and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

In his retirement years, Dave and Donna moved closer to Orlando, where he found great joy in being present for his grandchildren—from baseball games and basketball courts to school functions and church events. Though facing physical challenges, nothing could keep him from supporting his family; his constant presence was a testament to his devotion as a grandfather.

Dave's legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the faith he embraced. His story isn't just about loss—it's about hope, redemption, and the power of God's endless grace. Dave showed us it's never too late for a new beginning, never too late for faith, and never too late to let Jesus change your heart. His family invites anyone inspired by his journey to consider their own relationship with Jesus Christ, knowing that no one is ever too far from God's grace to receive salvation through faith in Him.

Dave is survived by his wife Donna; children Jason Norris, David Norris Jr., Susan Norris, Scott Martinez, and Brian Norris (Jenia); grandchildren Stephen, Ian, Nicole, his late granddaughter Grace, Kaylee, Emma, Mason, Jake, and Kayla and Gia; and great-grandchildren Aiden, and Hudson.