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James Norris Obituary
Hopkinton, NH - James Michael Norris, age 70, of Autumn Ridge Rd., Hopkinton, NH, passed away peacefully in his home with his family by his side on Friday, August 29, 2025.
Born in Denver, CO, the son of the late James F. Norris and Eileen H. Norris (95), Mike was the beloved husband and best friend of his wife of 48 years, Deborah (Hagen) Norris of Hopkinton, NH.
He leaves two sons, Anthony Norris and his fiance, Rachel, of Manchester, NH, Joseph Norris and his wife, Zoe, of Concord, NH; sister, Kaeleen Buckingham and her husband, David, of Colorado; mother-in-law, Esther Hagen; brother- in- law, John W. Hagen and wife Jenny of Virginia, along with many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his father, he was predeceased by his brother, Jay Norris, and father-in-law, Albert R. Hagen.
Mike earned his Bachelors degree in Hydrology from Colorado State Univ. in 1978 and his Masters degree in Civil Engineering, also from Colorado State Univ in 1984. Mike was a dedicated public servant and greatly enjoyed his time working for the United States Geological Survey for 44 years. During his time with the USGS, he held a wide variety of roles, beginning as a scientist and going on to become the National Streamflow Information Program (NSIP) Coordinator. Protecting and preserving our natural water systems was not just his job, it was his passion.
Mike enjoyed being part of the community of Hopkinton: mentoring the Hopkinton HS robotics team, being a member of the Warner River Local Advisory Committee and participating in local fundraisers and community projects with his wife, Debbie, in Rotary.
Mike valued and loved spending time with his family, celebrating holidays, camping, kayaking and enjoying special events together.
He was a very talented photographer and woodworker. Many of his woodworking projects are on display in the family gardens and home. He valued and enjoyed his time being outside tending to his 12 acres of land.
A visiting hour will be held on Friday, September 5th from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 158 Old West Hopkinton Road.
A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM at the church with a reception following the Mass at the Church.
Burial will follow at 2:30 PM at the Old Hopkinton Cemetery, adjacent to the Town Hall.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to the National Parks Conservation Association at Support.NPCA.org. Or, to Amedisys Hospice Care at 8 Commerce Drive, Suite 101, Bedford, NH 03110.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Norris
6 Entries
Robert Mason
September 8, 2025
I was very surprised to learn of Mike's passing. We worked together in the USGS from 2002 until 2015 and I had the pleasure of serving as Mike's supervisor for the last 5 years of that period. I can attest to Mike's passion for applying practical Earth science for the good of the public. He was highly committed to advancing the USGS streamgaging network and more effectively delivering the streamflow data and statistics needed for reduction of flood and drought hazards and better management of the Nation's water resources. Mike was well known across the National USGS Water community, a valued colleague, and a recognized and admired leader in thought and initiative who consultive and responsive approach to program management has been greatly missed. I hope that Mike's family and friends take some comfort in Mike's professional achievements and contributions to a stronger Nation.
Deb Foster
September 6, 2025
My condolences to Mike´s family for your loss. I worked with Mike at the UsGS in the office next to him and helped him Publish some of his surface water work. It was a pleasure working with him for several years and he was always friendly and supportive of publishing. I hope he had time To enjoy his retirement years a little.
Kernell Ries
September 5, 2025
I was shocked to learn of Mike's passing, which I learned from a former USGS coworker. Mike was my supervisor when he worked in the Massachusetts office of USGS, and then he was a co-worker after we both transferred to the Office of Surface Water at USGS headquarters in Virginia. I always had the greatest respect for Mike. As a boss, he was fair in his dealings with employees. As a co-worker, he was an intelligent, interesting, and fun person to be around. Mike was a great supporter of my career and of the program I lead, StreamStats. I will remember him fondly and appreciate he role he played in my life. My sincere condolences to his family.
Cathy Beahm
September 3, 2025
Debbie,
We are so sorry to hear of Mike´s passing. May God´s grace and your precious memories of Mike give you peace.
The Beahm family
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Cathy Beahm
September 3, 2025
Debbie,
We are si sorry to hear of Mike´s passing. May God´s grace and your precious memories of Mike give you peace.
The Beahm family
The Entire Staff of Waters Funeral Home
September 2, 2025
Offering our deepest condolences at this difficult time.
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