Gwendolyn M. Norris

Gwendolyn Mae Norris, 93, passed peacefully with family present on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Prairie Vista Village in Altoona.

Gwen was born October 14, 1932, in Faribault, Minnesota to Madelaine (Durnin) and Henry Hess. She devoted her career to children, serving as an educator for Bondurant Public Schools where she taught 4th grade. Gwen's greatest joy was her family. She was a dedicated mother, never missing an opportunity to support her children in their activities and professions, or by sending words of encouragement through cards, letters, or phone calls. Being a grandmother provided another avenue for her to support her loved ones. She followed her great-grandchildren's activities through video/photos as well as the stories retold to her. Late in life the youngest great-grands brought her much joy with their playfulness, creative play, and chatting when they came to visit. Gwen enjoyed reading, music, and traveling. California, Minnesota, "day trips just to explore," and Australia were some of her favorite destinations.

She is survived by her children: Michael Norris (Dianne), Robin Norris, Kirk Norris (Annette), and Jon Norris; grandchildren: Michael Carl Norris (Jess), Megan Norris, Kirby Nelson (Jacob), Hannah Prange (Doug), Chad Norris, and Madeline Norris (Robbe Verhofste); great-grandchildren: Grady, Emmy, Haddy, Thatcher, Campbell, Covey, and Meyer; brother, Bill (Nancy) Hess; sister-in-law, Donna Hess; and other extended family and friends.

Gwen was preceded in death by: her husband, Bob Norris; her son, William Brian Norris; parents, Henry and Madelaine Hess; brothers, Jamie Hess and Chuck Hess.

We will celebrate Mom on:
Saturday, 9 May 2026, from 2-5 p.m.
at 4290 NEW Casebeer Drive, Altoona, IA
Please join in by coming to share your favorite memories of Mom with us and "catching up" if we haven't seen you in a while.

MEMORIALS:
Please feel free to send donations directly to the memorial choices below; or send to a family member; or bring it to the celebration. All donations will help children, which would please mom to no end.
Thank you for your kindness and support!

1) Pine Island United Methodist Church (where mom grew up and attended) for children ministries, VBS, and/or Bible Camp.
200 N. Main Street, Pine Island, MN, 55963

2) Caring Hands in Altoona, Iowa
602 3rd Street SW, Altoona, IA 50009

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