Robert E. Norcross, MD

1926 - 2010

In loving memory of Robert "Bob" Norcross, M.D. who died peacefully in the early morning hours of August 17, 2010 at his home of over 40 years in Rolling Hills, CA. Robert was born on July 9, 1926 in Hollywood, California to Dr. Lee and Ruby Norcross. After graduating from Hollywood High School in the Navy ROTC, he began his college career at UCLA under direction of the military. After two years he transferred to USC and graduated with a B.S. in Biologic Zoology Science. Although he completed boot camp for the Navy he was stopped short of being deployed to the Korean War, and pursued his dream of becoming a physician. He entered medical school in Los Angeles at The College of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (COP&S). The medical school later became known as UC Irvine College of Medicine. Robert then entered a residency training program in general surgery at Los Angeles County Medical Center. He had an illustrious career as a general surgeon in the "South Bay" of Los Angeles, establishing Bay Harbor Hospital in Lomita and working more than 40 years at Little Company of Mary Hospital, Torrance Memorial Hospital, Gardena Memorial Hospital, South Bay Hospital and San Pedro Hospital. His dedication to medicine has been passed on to his sons, James and Tim, as they became physicians as well. Robert had a passion for sailing boats and competed in races to Ensenada, Mexico and around Southern California when he was younger. He also loved to travel and explore the world with his loving wife, JoAnn (Deet) Norcross. He is survived by his wife, JoAnn; his sons, Paul, James and Tim; his daughter, Cathy (Hess); his sons-in-law, Scott Hess and Mark (Jenkins); daughters-in-law, Gwenne and Laurie; and grandchildren, Kate, Sean, Kendall, Taylor, Ava, Grace, Noah, and Jacob. Please sign the guest book at www.dailybreeze.com/obits.