Norris, George Bryan

George Bryan Norris, 94, formerly of Cedar Rapids, passed away on Friday, Aug. 21, 2009, in St. Luke's Hospital in Duluth, Minn. Born April 29, 1915, in Columbus County, N.C., George was the son of Oscar and Queenie Norris.

George left home early to work and travel. During the Great Depression, he was proud to say he worked every day. Ultimately, he finished his secondary education and went on to study for two years at George Washington University. For his entire life, he was an avid reader and student of history.

A veteran of World War II, George served in the Pacific Theater of Operations with the 13th Jungle Air Force in the 320th Fighter Control Squadron. He reached the rank of Staff Sergeant and received the campaign ribbon for the Philippine Liberation Campaign with Bronze Star.

He married Katherine V. Kerns June 3, 1943. They raised two sons and had four grandchildren. George held careers ranging from restaurant entrepreneur to cab driver, but spent the majority of his professional life as an electronic technician at Rockwell Collins Inc. He was a member of VFW Post #788 and Trinity Lutheran Church of Cedar Rapids.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Katherine; two sons, James Robert and George Alan; two daughters-in-law, Donna and Amy; and four grandchildren, Jack, Betsy, Joseph and Laura.

He was devoted, patient, resourceful and brave. His life was a rich tapestry of experience and wisdom he happily shared. He is loved and he will be missed.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the noon Funeral Service Tuesday at Asbury Methodist Church. Rev. Sharon K. Rigby Osborn officiating. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery with Military Honors accorded by the Duluth Combined Honor Guard. All events will take place in Duluth, Minn.

Please leave a memory of George or words of support for the family at www.mem.com

Arrangements by Bell Brothers Funeral Home, Duluth, Minn., 1-(800) 770-5745.