Norris Artman

N orris A rtman, age 97, passed away at his home in North Platte, NE, on February 28, 2023, surrounded by loving family members. He made his home in Hays, KS, for several decades before moving to North Platte to be closer to family in his later years.

Norris was born September 9, 1925, to Harry and Zelma Artman in Marysville, KS. He was a proud Kansan who attended the University of Kansas following his honorable service in the U.S. Army during World War II. Characteristically humble about his service, Norris was a decorated serviceman; after he was awarded the Purple Heart he returned home to his studies and became a pharmacist, which was appropriate for such an intelligent, caring, helpful man, which is how he is remembered by friends and family alike.

He remained loyal to KU (always cheering on his Jayhawks) and as an avid sports fan, also made plenty of time for the Royals and Chiefs. Norris was highly respected in his community and as an active member of the First United Methodist Church. He was known as a kind, gentle and compassionate man who helped others. His greatest accomplishments, perhaps, were as husband, father and grandfather. Norris was married to the love of his life, Janet Louise Barker, and they were blessed with four children.

He was a passionate advocate for learning, sending all four children through college, and always spent time teaching them and his grandchildren about his wide array of interests. Norris enjoyed all the activities of his offspring and their children, spending literally years of his life at sporting events, practices, music recitals, dance competitions, graduations, etc. He also loved road trips and took great pleasure in visiting his grown children when they moved away from home. Norris took several of his grandchildren on "epic road trips" (their words, not his) to places like Canada and the Grand Canyon, memories they all treasure.

All of the grandchildren have fond memories of hours spent playing Farkle, Chickenfoot and cards with Grandpa. He was generous with gifts but spoiled his family the most with his generosity of time and attention, which never wavered. Norris was always willing to chat, be it about the current book he was reading, how your day was, or how the weather was. He cherished holidays with his family and welcomed the noise that came with joyful celebrations, but giving big hugs might have been his favorite part. His daughter, Lisa, wishes to remember him with the word "pangloss", which means a person who is unfailingly optimistic. Norris was such a light for nearly a century and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janet; his parents; brother, James Artman; sister, Mary Frances Valley; and grandson, Aaron Barkley.

Norris is survived by his children, Debbie, Michael (Debbie Horne), Lisa Barkley (Phil), and Gretchen; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and other family.

Celebration of Norris' Life will be 11 a.m., Monday, March 13, 2023, at First United Methodist Church in North Platte. The memorial book may be signed at odeanchapel.com or prior to services at the church. Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are to the First United Methodist Church in North Platte (1600 West E ST, 69101) or Hays, KS, (305 West 7th ST, 67601).