2020/02/obit-norris-mom_obit_pic_adj-210x300.jpgLois Norris was born Lois Marie Groehler to Arthur and Villa Groehler in Kelliher, Minn., on Aug. 2, 1935. She and her husband, E.L. “Jack” Norris, enjoyed living and working in many countries such as Ecuador, Saudi Arabia and Nigeria before settling in Pagosa Springs upon their retirement in 1980. Lois was an EMS volunteer during the 1980s and, later, worked for many years for the Archuleta County School District as a bus driver; she loved the kids she drove and found her job very fulfilling.
Lois was a passionate, life-long equestrian. Her life was never complete without her horses. She enjoyed hunter/jumper, faux fox hunting and stadium jumping when she was younger, and leisurely trail rides as she grew older.
Lois had a great many friends whom she cherished. Her home was always open for a cup of coffee, a bite to eat or just a visit.
Lois lost her long battle with Alzheimer’s on Jan. 28. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jack Norris, and daughter Janelle “Gidget” Norris. She is survived by her children Blue Norris, Lisa Norris, Laura Stewart/Robert Stewart; grandchildren Skyler Moran, Jade Hughes/Greg Hughes, Zackery Shivers and Chrystal Snow/Charles Martinez. She is also survived by her great grandchildren, Hevon and Helliono Martinez, and Mikey and Jenna Hughes.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to Lois’ caregivers Sonia Aragon, Melissa Snow, Peylin Snow, Courtney Swan and Amber Church. Because of each one of these wonderful people, Lois was able to stay in her home surrounded by her family through her Alzheimer’s journey. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the Archuleta County Humane Society or The Alzheimer’s Association (https://act.alz.org). There will be a celebration of Lois’ life at the American Legion, 287 Hermosa St., Pagosa Springs Colo., on Feb. 8 at 11 a.m.
