Michael Everett Norris II

Michael Everett Norris II passed away on December 16, 2025, surrounded by love, after bravely fighting cancer and complications from chemotherapy. Michael faced his battle with unwavering faith, courage, and grace, fighting until his very last breath. A funeral service will be at New Life Church on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at 11:00 am, with a potluck luncheon to follow at The American Legion, 200 Rockpile Blvd, Gillette, WY 82716.

Michael was born on November 4, 1971, to Mike Norris St. and Linda Abers (Norris). He was raised in Twin Falls, Idaho, where he attended school and graduated. Music was woven into Michael's life from an early age. His father was a phenomenal guitarist and singer who led his own band, and while he hoped Michael would follow in his footsteps on guitar, Michael's heart belonged to the drums. Teaching himself by ear-- never learning to read music, Michael became an exceptionally talented drummer whose natural gift made him unforgettable behind the kit.

Michael joined his father's band, and the two shared many shows together-- memories Michael cherished deeply. He later took to the road playing with Randy Copa's band, traveling extensively and loving every moment of life on the road. That chapter was cut short when Michael received the call that his father had cancer. Without hesitation, Michael left the band and returned home to spend the remainder of his father's days with him. Their bond was strong, and Michael carried that love with him for the rest of his life.

Some of Michael's fondest memories were made working on the farm with his uncle Don and aunt Mary, whom he always regarded as parental figures. Michael worked whenever he could-- after school and on weekends. His uncle once said Michael was the best worker he ever had.

Music remained Michael's constant. Though December was always difficult after losing his father, Michael knew his dad would want him to keep playing-- and so he did. Over the years, he played in several bands including Junk Buggy, Black Earth Revival, Rebel Raised, Center Lane Band, Toy Box, Eric May Band. Michael was a dedicated musician and last performed with Empty Cask Band. He also filled in for many others, including, Sheri Taylor and Shots Fired Band, Justin Beasley's band after the Rodeo, and Mike & the Moonpies, he also opened for Parmalee, Fire House, Bryan White, Andy Griggs, Jamie O'Neil, Chris Ledoux, Ned Ledoux, Mickey and the Motor Cars, BJ Thomas and April Wine. Michael also Collaborated the Woodvine album by Rebel Raised; music was not just a passion for Michael-- it was his soul.

Michael's faith in God was an important part of his life. He believed deeply in the Lord and often turned to prayer for strength, especially during life's most difficult moments. He shared his God-given talent by playing drums in worship at New Life Wesleyan Church and The Journey Church, where he felt honored to serve and connect through music.

While playing with Toy Box, Michael received one of the greatest gifts of his life-- news that he was going to be a father. His daughter, Brookley, changed everything. Michael embraced fatherhood wholeheartedly. His love for children extended far beyond biology. Michael lovingly took on the role of father to Nicole Eich, raising her as his own. Michael and Michelle opened their home, serving as mentors and guiding Nathaniel Jacob and others who struggled.

In 2001, Michael welcomed, twin sons, Cooper and Trae. As a single father raising twin toddlers, Michael worked tirelessly to make ends meet-- and he loved every minute of it. He later returned to Wyoming with the boys and went back to school to become an electrician, a career he truly enjoyed. He worked for several companies including Power Solutions, Tucker Electric, and Black Hills Energy. After enduring chemotherapy and radiation, Michael was determined to reclaim his strength and independence. He joined RMS Electric and traveled to North Dakota, pushing himself daily to rebuild his body and spirit. He often told his wife that each day he went into the "blue room," prayed, and thanked God for making it through another day.

In 2016, Michael met the love of his life, Michelle Lunen. They met at Jake's, where he was playing a show, and knew from the very first night that they were soulmates. Michael and Michelle enjoyed working together on their house.

In January, Michael found out his cancer had metastasized to his bones. He set out on a journey of hope, faith, and relentless determination to beat it. But the chemotherapy was just too much for him the second time, and he fought with everything he had.

Michael was also deeply loved by Tom and Tamara Preston, who treated him like a son and stood beside him with unwavering love and care all the way to the end. Their presence, support, and compassion meant more to Michael and Michelle than words can express.

Four days before he passed, he found peace and acceptance. He was surrounded by his loving wife, Michelle, and his faithful companion dog, Bonzo, when he went home to be with his Heavenly Father.

Michael would not want tears-- he would want celebration. He often said he had a very good life, and he truly did. He leaves behind a legacy of love, music, faith, kindness, and strength.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Mike Norris Sr; Cousin Joe Norris; Brother-in-law Nathaniel Lunen, Zach Lunen and his grandparents.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Michelle Norris; his faithful companion, Bonzo; his daughter Brookley (Ryan) DeRomedi; his sons Cooper (Alyssa) Norris and Trae (Alexis) Norris; daughter Nicole Eich; his nephew; Nathaniel Jacob; his mother Linda (Butch) Wilcox; his brother Jamie Norris; Niece Evelin Norris; his uncle Don (Mary) Norris; cousins Kandra (Dan) Danos; and Kelly Vincent; grandchildren Bohdy, Granett, Ledger, Klyde, and Eden; his soul-music friend Zach Dunham; mother-in-law Cleo Morris; Sister-in-law Tanya Lunen and Stephanie (Gavin) Rasmussen, Tom and Tamara Preston; his beloved band mates; and many cherished cousins and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to help defray funeral expenses.