Judge James Robert Norris

(2/23/47 - 7/25/17), passed after an extended battle with cancer.

James was a devoted father, grandfather, and husband who served his country for over a quarter century, first as a cadet at the United States Military Academy, West Point, and later as an Administrative Law Judge.

Graduating from Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids, IA, James then entered West Point. During his final year as a cadet, James suffered a traumatic injury resulting in his honorable discharge from service. Recovering, he then attended both Coe College and Drake University Law School, earning first a degree in mathematics and then later his juris doctorate.

James practiced law for 17 years in Iowa and Illinois until accepting appointment as an Administrative Law Judge with the United States Social Security Administration. James worked over 26 years as a judge assigned to the Indianapolis branch of the Social Security Administration's Office of Hearings and Appeals until illness forced his retirement in late 2016.

With his wife of 46 years, Donna Jean Norris, James raised two children: Jack and Betsy. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing. He possessed a keen appreciation for history and encouraged his children to approach life with a sense of justice, equality, and fairness he practiced his entire life. He loved his job and his family. He is missed more than words can ever express.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; mother, Katherine; daughter, Betsy (Jeff); son, Jack (Lauren); grandchildren, Lyle, Elliot, and his namesake, Gideon James. James was preceded by his brother, Al (1949-2017), and father, George (2015-2009).

As per his wishes, James will be cremated and a private ceremony held where he is interred. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in the name of "Judge James R. Norris" to the cancer research, disabled veterans, or wildlife conservation charity of your choice.

Wilson St. Pierre Funeral Service and Crematory, Greenwood Chapel, has been entrusted with funeral arrangements. You are invited to visit our website at www.wilsonstpierre.com to share a memory or leave a condolence for the family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Indianapolis Star on Jul. 28, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for James Norris

12 Entries

Michele Hampton

August 14, 2017

Dear Mrs. Norris and family: I just heard of Judge Norris' passing today. I am sorry. I appeared before him many times at ODAR. He always was ready with a smile.
Michele Hampton

Linda Stumpff Rutherford [email protected]

August 1, 2017

Donna: So sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and your family.
Linda Stumpff Rutherford, classmate Jefferson 1967

Nancy L. McCracken

July 31, 2017

Dear Donna and Family
I am so sorry to hear of Jim's passing and your deep and devastating loss. Jim was a good man and to be admired - I'm sure he loved his family deeply. I know what all of you have been going through and what a loss you feel since my family and I experienced that same kind of loss when Bob died. We were relieved that there was no more pain and suffering, but they never can be replaced. God bless you all and my prayers are with you.

Karl Nelson

July 31, 2017

Donna - We were saddened to hear of Jim's passing - It was not that long ago we were stumbling through law school, or maybe it was, now that I think of it - We have pleasant memories of our times together - Our best to you always - Karl & Jan Nelson

Georgia Ann Pitcher

July 30, 2017

Dear Donna - We met at one of the greenhouses on Bluff Road when Jim's parents were in town. He spoke of you so often that I felt I knew you and your family. I not only enjoyed Jim, but his court was a pleasure. I looked forward to being assigned as a medical expert for him. I learned so much about law and history from the proceedings. But beween as Lee pointed out we had a great time. He was funny, loved a joke or prank. He was very serious, deliberate, and fair as soon as the witness came through the door. I didn't know of his medical condition until recently. I had retired for medical reasons too. I love the picture you chose and will always love and remember him as a man, judge, husband, father, and friend. He was a great human being I shall miss him. Dr. Georgia Ann Pitcher

Leslie Stokke

July 30, 2017

My condolences to the family of Jim Norris. He was the one who provided me with the opportunity to practice law when he and Dinah had the office at the Cedar River Tower. He was an intelligent, vigorous advocate for his clients who he had a heartfelt appreciation for their struggles. He was proud of his profession and his role in helping people. I remember also his understanding and appreciation of his family in his life. Les Stokke Cedar Rapids, Iowa July 30,2017

Shirley Cassel

July 30, 2017

I have had the privilege of knowing the Norris family for 27 years. We've shared many great times
together and Jim will be missed!
I'm praying for the family and know our God will sustain you during this time.
Shirley Cassel Indianapolis, IN Jul 30, 2017

Richard & Shirley Nelson

July 29, 2017

Where has time gone? It is hard to believe -- particularly when he is younger than us and too young. You were good neighbors here in Cedar Rapids. We were your next door neighbors and miss you. We have moved on to a condo now and if you get to CR Donna, give us a call (319-393-5100) & come see us. We live off of 42nd Street NE. Old neighbors and friends, Richard and Shirley Nelson

July 29, 2017

I would like to extend my condolences to your family. Psalm 121:1,2.

Lee Fischer

July 29, 2017

I had the privilege of working closely with Judge Norris for the past 10 years. I provided family medicine testimony at his hearings and selected his hearings first before any other judges. His hearings were conducted with professionalism and efficiency. Between hearings he was a joy to be with and we had a great time telling stories and jokes. When he was forced to retire, I missed his hearings and was truly sad. My condolences to his family. I know I speak for the other medical experts when I say he will be missed.
Lee Fischer MD 7/29/17

P S

July 28, 2017

My sincere condolence to the Norris family. Our Creator has made a provision that gives us hope and confidence .(John 3:16). May God fill your heart with comfort.

July 28, 2017

To the family of Judge James Robert Norris. May the love of family and friends comfort you. Blessed are they that mourned: for they shall be comforted.

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