Henry Norris, beloved husband of Robin, passed away peacefully at home on July 6 after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 84. Hank, as he was known to his family and friends, was born in Hollywood on April 3, 1922. He grew up in Pacific Palisades, where his parents owned Norris Hardware, which is still operated today by family members. While a student at Hollywood High, Hank became an Eagle Scout. He continued his education in mechanical engineering at UCLA while working at Northrop Aircraft Corp. from 1942-44. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country during World War II, working as a draftsman. After his tour of duty, Hank returned to UCLA, where he earned his B.A. degree in mechanical engineering and had the honor of being a member of the first graduating class in that field of study at UCLA in 1949. Prior to graduation, Hank married Robin Wear, whom he had met while they both served in the Navy. Robin and Hank eventually made their home with their three boys in Sunland, where they lived for 30 years. Hank was active at Shadow Hills Presbyterian Church and in the Boys Scouts of America. He broadened his career experience by working for Librascope as a computer specialist for about nine years after college. Then, in 1962, he began his 25-year career with Jet Propulsion Laboratory, working in the NASA unmanned space exploration program. Before retiring as deputy assistant laboratory director in 1987 he earned many honors, one being the NASA Distinguished Service Medal in 1976 for his work as project manager of the (Mars) Viking Project orbiter. After his retirement, Hank and Robin moved to Camarillo, where they made their home for the past 19 years. With this move, they became members of Camarillo United Methodist Church and enjoyed being closer to their sons and grandchildren. Hank is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Robin; sons and daughters-in-law, Gary and Debbie Norris of Camarillo, Gordon and Louise Norris of Saugus and Bob and Pat Norris of Ojai; grandchildren, Tiffany Brooke, Sabrina, Jonathan, Cameron, Katie and Brenna; a brother, Benjamin Norris of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and numerous nieces and nephews. The family would like to express thanks to the many caregivers with Comfort Keepers and Buena Vista Hospice. A service was held on July 10 at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park in Ventura. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Henry’s memory be made to Camarillo Hospice, 400 Rosewood Avenue, Suite 102, Camarillo, CA 93010.
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