Donald “Kent” Norris

Donald “Kent” Norris passed away on April 3, 2025, at the age of 78, in Draper, Utah. Kent battled and defeated many health challenges over the years, but ultimately was taken by pancreatic cancer. Born on June 1, 1946, Kent dedicated his life to coaching, profoundly impacting numerous young lives.

Kent spent the first 10 years of his life in Randolph Utah. He had a great love for being on the ranch with his dad. He was regularly seen riding his horses, Popcorn and Peanuts, around town. He lost his dad to a fire at a young age, which eventually led to the family moving to Salt Lake City. He attended East High School, where he was a three sport athlete, competing in football, baseball, and winning the state championship in basketball in 1964. He received a baseball scholarship to the University of Utah where he furthered his education. During that time, he proudly served in the Army National Guard Reserves.

Professionally, Kent was a respected teacher and coach at Granger High School where he won two baseball state championships in 1972 and 1976. This is also where he met his wife of 52 years, Colleen. He owned and operated Sports Image, starting many years of working in the sporting goods industry. In his later years, he found his calling as a coach and mentor at the Utah Baseball Academy. His passion for sports and youth development was undeniable and left a lasting legacy in the community. His greatest joy came from helping others. He had a unique ability to see the good in everyone and to help them realize their full potential.

Kent was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. His life was a Christlike example of living the 2nd great commandment to love others. His love, compassion, and efforts extended far beyond faith, race, or social status. He made everyone feel like they were special, and they were to him.

Kent enjoyed golfing with long time friends, trying new restaurants, and watching his favorite show NCIS. He was a great story teller. He loved to laugh and make others laugh. Time with his grandkids was invaluable. Whether it was playing catch, shooting hoops, going to the movies or just taking a walk, he was happy. Kent made lasting friendships everywhere he went and in every timeline of his life. People mattered. These activities brought him great joy and allowed him to share memorable moments with family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Colleen Woffinden Norris; children, Shane Norris (Lisa), Troy Norris (Tiffany), Jamie Norris Demeyere (Russell), and Murph Norris; grandchildren, Justin, Wilson, Jack, Ashleigh, Hayden, Easton, Bennett, Knox, Kemaal, Austin, Taylor, Addison, Marcus, and two great-grandchildren Scout and Cash with another on the way.

Kent also leaves behind his siblings, Rosalie Frodsham, Wendell Norris (Steve), Linda Frandsen, and Colleen Fritter (Dale). He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson Norris and Ardith Norris Jones, and his brother, Harold J Norris.

Kent's life was one of service, love, and laughter, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have been touched by his kindness and spirit.

We would like to express our gratitude to Jamie and Archie from Hospice of Utah. They showed great compassion, patience, and sympathy as they cared for Kent.

A viewing will be held at Anderson and Goff Mortuary (11859 South 700 East, Draper, Utah) on Thursday, April 10th, 2025, from 6:00-8:00pm. Additional parking available across the street from the mortuary.

A short viewing will take place prior to the funeral services at the Draper Utah Crescent View Stake (11626 South 300 East, Draper, Utah) on Friday, April 11th, 2025, from 10:30-11:30am. Funeral services will begin at 12:00pm.

Interment to follow services at Crescent Cemetery (11105 South State Street, Sandy, Utah).

Live-Stream of Funeral Service   https://evt.live/kent-norris