Harvey Norris

1942 - 2025

Harvey Wolven Norris, Jr., 83, passed away peacefully at home on November 20, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.
Harvey was born on June 10, 1942, in Frankfort, Michigan, to Marguerite "Peg" (née Round) and Harvey Norris Sr. He grew up with his brother, Richard "Dick" Norris, and later moved with his family to Benton Harbor, where he graduated from Benton Harbor Senior High School.
Harvey attended Western Michigan University, where he met the love of his life, Mary Miner. He continued his education at the University of Michigan, earning his degree in Physical Therapy. Harvey and Mary married August 22, 1964, and shared 61 wonderful years together.
Harvey dedicated more than 44 years to his career as a physical therapist, rehabilitation director, and hospital administrator through Munson Medical Center. He cared for patients with skill, compassion, and integrity.
A lifelong advocate for water and boating safety, Harvey devoted more than 55 years to teaching and mentoring others. He spent many of those years educating school children about staying safe around the water. He was also actively involved with the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, and his commitment to this work undoubtedly helped save countless lives.
Harvey was also deeply committed to community service. He was a proud member of the United States Power Squadron, an Elks Club member, a Shriner, and a faithful blood donor with the American Red Cross. He was an active member of Central United Methodist Church, where he once served as lead usher. His dedication to service and caring for others was evident in every part of his life.
He found joy in the simplest, sweetest parts of life. He loved savoring a slice of cherry pie with a hot cup of coffee, spending long days out on the water, or getting lost in the world of model trains. He also had a soft spot for dogs, whose companionship always brightened his days. These weren't just hobbies or pastimes; they were reflections of his warmth and the comforting presence he brought to everyone who knew him. He was ever-present for milestones and everyday moments alike, because nothing meant more to him than being with his family.
Harvey was preceded in death by his parents, Peg and Harvey Sr., and his brother, Dick.
He is survived by his wife, Mary; children, Teri Norris Thompson and Dr. Robert Norris; grandchildren, Carolyn (David) Fleis, Kimmy (Jack) Fleming, Jay (Olivia Burton) Thompson, Meredith Norris, and Elizabeth Norris; and great-grandchildren, Trace, Savannah, and Jameson Fleis, and Hayden Fleming.
Above all, Harvey was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His presence, generosity, and unconditional love will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Friends are welcome to visit with Harvey's family from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St., Traverse City, Michigan 49684.
A funeral service honoring Harvey will take place at 11:00 a.m., with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Central United Methodist Church, 222 Cass St., Traverse City, Michigan 49684.
In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to Toys for Tots, https://traverse-city-mi.toysfortots.org.
Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Harvey's family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.