Arthur W. Norris

September 17, 1955 – April 7, 2025

Arthur William Norris Jr., 69, of Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, surrounded by family, after a courageous battle with cancer. A man of quiet strength, deep love, and unwavering faith, Arthur lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, and a deep connection to the natural world.

Born on September 17, 1955, Arthur was raised on a farm in Alexis, Illinois. From a young age, he learned the value of responsibility, spending his childhood caring for horses, chickens, and cattle. He spent countless summer days swimming in the pond his father built for him—a place that brought him peace and joy throughout his life. A proud farm kid, he played football in high school and received his first hunting gun at just nine years old from his father, sparking a lifelong love for the outdoors.

Arthur became a skilled welder by trade. Over the course of his career, he built water towers across the United States, helping bring clean, reliable water to towns and cities. He also worked as a truck driver, delivering food across the country and ensuring families were fed—his quiet way of serving others. Later, he took on the role of Quad City Waterkeeper, working passionately to protect rivers and lakes for future generations.

He had a deep love for nature, spending his days fishing, gardening, and photographing the world around him. His photography earned awards and captured the quiet beauty of rural life. Arthur’s favorite bird, the bald eagle, symbolized his own fierce strength and independence. He also had a steadfast daily routine of reading his devotion each morning, grounding himself in faith that carried him through life’s trials. In his final months, he was surrounded by the love and support of family and friends who visited regularly, lifting his spirits and bringing comfort. His beloved girlfriend, Patricia Diane Nalley, spent countless hours by his side, offering warmth and love. His dear friend Bill Cash visited often, providing steadfast friendship and care, so much so that Art once said, "Bill Cash was the best friend I ever had."

Above all, Arthur was a devoted father and grandfather. He often said, “My kids are the best thing I ever did,” and he meant it. He is survived by his children: Christine, William, Gracey, and Maggie; his beloved grandchildren: Addison, Abigail, Micah, Stella, Lillie, Wolfgang, Anjali, Avalon, and Winnie; and his sister, Bonnie.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by his two sisters, Cathy and Char.

Arthur’s legacy lives on in the towers he built, the highways he traveled, the rivers he protected, the photographs he took, and most of all, in the love he gave. He showed us what it means to be strong, to hold on with grace, and to live with heart.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7

The funeral will be on April 19th, 11 AM, at Moore Memorial Home, 200 E Hunt Ave, Alexis, IL 61412The burial will be held immediately after the funeral at the Alexis Cemetery for those who wish to attend.

Please offer your condolences and expressions of sympathy to the family on his Memory Page at mvcremation.com