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Kenneth D. Norris
1983 - 2019
Kenneth D. Norris
1983 - 2019
Obituary
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Kenneth Norris Obituary
Aug. 9, 1983 - Jan. 27, 2019
Kenneth Daniel Norris, 35, of Portland, passed away unexpectedly Jan. 27, 2019. Kenny was born Aug. 9, 1983, in Bend, Ore., to Daniel James and Karen Kay (Johnson) Norris. He spent his childhood in Bend, graduating from Bend High School in 2001 and Central Oregon Community College in 2003. After attending Colorado Christian and University of Oregon, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Advertising & Graphic Design) from Portland State University in 2016.
In school, Kenny especially loved working on projects and he excelled in music. He played many sports—basketball, baseball, soccer, football—and loved snowboarding and skateboarding. At 6'6" he was a formidable competitor; he swung a powerful golf club and could throw a mighty bowling ball. He was a member and the leader of several bands in Bend and in Portland, often performing his own music. The guitar was his main instrument, but he played many others, including piano, bass and tuba. From early grades and throughout his life, Kenny played in many music groups.
Always excellent with technology, Kenny was drawn to advertising and graphic design, working a variety of agency and freelance design jobs: digital and print ads, branding and logo design, music and video production, book creation and layout, illustration and photography. What he was most proud of, and what drove most of his design sensibility, were his original typeface/fonts, which he made available for purchase. Website building and maintenance were also specialties. For years, he worked in the service industry and had a vast knowledge of all different types of spirits; Kenny was a favorite bartender, and he provided exceptional customer service.
Kenny had a big heart, big personality and was always present when needed. His crass humor notwithstanding, he had a passion for human decency. We will miss, miss, miss his big hugs. It is impossible to imagine a world without Kenny.
Kenny is survived by his parents; his brother, Gabriel; and a host of cousins, aunts, and uncles.
In lieu of flowers, people wishing to honor Kenny's passion for music can contribute to a Gofundme account (find link on Kenny's Facebook page). All donations received will go towards educating and teaching kids in school how to make music.
Please sign the online guest book at www.oregonlive.com/obits
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Chuck Nobles
March 16, 2019
Having just found about Kenny's passing, I had to make a quick comment, even if late. He was a student of mine at PSU in the advertising program, and one that reminds me of why I love to teach. He was engaged, creative and always full of energy. I'd like to think we became friends. My thoughts are with all of his family. I will miss hearing from Kenny, and I often did after he graduated.
Claire Morgan
February 16, 2019
Gabe, Karen and Dan,
My heart goes out to you...
Kenny had always been a giving person. He gave of himself, his talents, his hugs, and his time. He left us many exceptional rememberances.
When we had a family gathering, Kenny showed up with a big smile. He even showed up to help move! Talking with him, in my experience, was a heart-to-heart discussion. He was the real deal, a genuine person.
I will miss you dearly, Kenny, and thank you for shining your light so warmly on all of us. Love, Aunt Claire
Karon Davis
February 10, 2019
Im so deeply sorry for your loss... I knew him from my time at EMF many many years ago. He was quite and strong, guarded yet willing to give a warm friendly hug. I am sure he fits perfectly in the big arms of Jesus . His final destination and home . From a mom to a mom I cannot even begin to feel your pain . But I know my Jesus does.. may He give everything you need in this time.
Karon Davis
Amber, Dominique
Alma Tierney
February 9, 2019
Kenny was a good friend of our son Stuart.
Kenny was very friendly, funny and an amazing musician, we are truly blessed to have known him.
Our sincere sympathy to his family and friends.
Graham & Alma Tierney
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February 9, 2019
My heart goes out to Karen, Dan, and Gabe at the sudden loss of Kenny. I only knew him as a child but wish I also had known him as the vibrant young man he came to be. Deepest condolences, Val Wiley
Joan Graham
February 8, 2019
Kenny was my nephew, and through the past years, I kept up with what was going on with him from my brother Dan. I was amazed, however, at all that he accomplished as it is written in his obituary. What a guy! I remember him from his growing up years and how much I enjoyed seeing him and Gabriel whenever we had family gatherings. In later years, I saw him a few times, and on one occasion, he sang a classical operatic piece for the family gathered at my brother Tom's house. I was amazed and saw his musical talent at that time. He leaves a hole in our lives that will only be filled with our memories of him and how he touched us. My prayers and love go out to you, my brother Dan, and to Karen and Gabriel. May God hold you in the hollow of his hand and show you his comfort and peace during this time of loss.
Brooke Dyal
February 8, 2019
Kenny was such a kind hearted man. He was easy going and genuinely friendly. He connected with us from the first time we met him. My boys adored him. He spent some time teaching my son to play the piano before we moved out of town. When I recently posted about my 11y.o. getting good grades, Kenny took the time to call and congratulate my son. That simple outreach touched my heart immensely. It's been 3 years since we moved out of town and saw Kenny in person, but in talking to him it felt like no time at all had gone by at all. We love you Kenny and you will be missed greatly!
Dean and Pam Nichols
February 5, 2019
I met Kenny years ago when he was a little guy. I have not seen him again since that day. But I knew Kenny through the eyes and love of his dad. For the past 20 years I have been able to see Dan each summer. Each visit has always been delightful as we share stories of our children and their journey. As I read Kenny's story I marveled at all I already knew about Kenny from my years of visiting Dan and listening to Kenny's music and seeing pictures of Kenny and Gabriel. Always the love that Dan has for his precious sons was evident! Our family will continue to pray for comfort and peace during this difficult time. May the beautiful memories you have of Kenny be a source of joy and comfort. Our sincere condolences to each family member, Sending our love and prayers.
Bernadette Coburn
February 4, 2019
Karen and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. A mother's heart is so connected with the child we carry inside of us for 9 months. The bond is so very special, a gift from our Lord. Please take comfort in knowing that your beautiful son is with our Lord. Continued prayers of comfort for you and your family.
We share the same birthday,
Leo.
God bless you.
Love,
Bernadette Coburn
This is so Kenny!
Karen (Mom) Johnson
February 4, 2019
We neglected to add that the Celebration of Life will be at The Old Church Auditorium, 1422 SW 11th Ave., Portland, on Saturday, February 9, at 1:00.
February 3, 2019
No one should lose their son, especially at such an early age. So sorry, Karen
lauri hull
February 2, 2019
Our hearts hurt at the loss of our friend. Kenny was...Kenny. He will always have our love. Our deepest sympathy to his family. Lauri Hull and Bradley Steece. Part of his OG family.
Kathy Martin
February 1, 2019
Kenny had a heart of gold was very loved by all and was oh so talented in his music career . He is going to be missed by everyone. We will never forget you!!!
Daysha Balloun
February 1, 2019
Rest In Peace, Kenny.
Cindi Mojeske
February 1, 2019
Handsome , smart , talented , loved his family and adored his mom ! Very opinionated lol . He was hard to tame as my employee but after we both left the Olive Garden we became friends and kept in touch . Loved him very much !
Michael Peecher
February 1, 2019
The last time I saw him we randomly ran into each other out and about, honestly, it had been a while since our paths crossed, but Kenny was really good at making you feel like you saw him yesterday even if you hadn't. He ran across the establishment yelling my name and not only hugged me so hard it was hard to breathe, but he literally picked me up off the ground. I will cherish that memory and miss him. My heart goes out to Gabe and all of Kenny's friends and family. We are all better off having known him.
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