Our dear uncle, Norris H. Turk passed away Thursday, September 22, 2011 in Midland, Texas at the age of 98. Norris was born April 9, 1913 in Lawrence County Missouri to Merta Ann and Charley Harrison Turk. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Sanford Neil and Claude Eugene. His loving wife of 76 years, Dottee, predeceased him in April of 2011.

Norris graduated from high school in Miller, Missouri in 1931 and was employed in Andrews, Texas on January 1, 1934 by Geophysical Research Corp., which later became Amerada Petroleum Corp. While working in Andrews he met the love of his life, Dorothy Dale Price, and they married in Kermit, Texas December 1, 1934. They lived in various southern states and were moved to Canada in 1949. Norris worked for Amerada 33 ½ years; the last 21 of those in Canada. While in Canada Norris worked with geophysical crews in unexplored areas to find possible oil drilling sites. This was exciting and dangerous work.

Both Norris and Dottee became curlers and competed in many tournaments. Norris and Dottee moved from Canada to Springdale, Arkansas in July 1970 and to Midland, Texas in June 1973. Turk has innate artistic abilities and has created many beautiful scenes in watercolor, oils, and photography. In 1983 Norris became a prolific needlework artist and has won many local and state competitions. Surviving are nephews Michael Turk in Aurora, Missouri and Wallace Turk in Joplin, Missouri. Great nephews are Timothy Turk in Australia and Steven Turk in Fort Worth, Texas. Great nieces are Lisa Turk in Fort Worth, Texas and Maria Sexton in Nashville, Tennessee. His extended family includes many nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews. His niece, Genie Price in Dallas, Texas, was his caregiver.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 10:00 AM at the Andrews Cemetery, under the direction of  McNett Funeral Home, Andrews, Texas. Rev. Kevin Covington will officiate.

Norris had a keen wit and a wonderful smile. He will be missed by many. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association or the charity of your choice.