by Victor Krause
The impact Terry F. Norris had on the aviation community far exceeds the string of remarkable accomplishments he left in the wake of his lifetime, November 7, 1935 – August 4, 2026.
Terry began his career putting his A&P license to work at several small Indiana FBOs, followed by positions with Schneck Aviation and Hartzog. He then joined Woodward Governor, where he posted the highest score in the company’s history on its formidable aptitude examination. From 1967 to 1970, Terry was assigned to the SST (Supersonic Transport) program before leaving to establish Aircraft Systems, Inc. in Rockford, Illinois. The company celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020.
Name the accessory, and Terry could find the problem and fix it. His keen mechanical intuition and extraordinary troubleshooting skills earned him PAMA’s (Professional Aviation Maintenance Association) “Technician of the Year” award in 1987 and the FAA’s “General Aviation Maintenance Technician of the Year” award in 1989.
Terry was an exceptionally gifted troubleshooter, which is one reason Rock Valley College valued him as a trusted advisor to its aviation department. These accolades, among many others, were bestowed upon a truly rare individual.
Paul Poberezny was just one of the many customers who considered Terry a friend and Aircraft Systems an indispensable resource. Terry was, of course, also a member of the Quiet Birdmen (QBs). His fingerprints and signature can be found in thousands of aircraft logbooks—including mine—throughout the Midwest and far beyond.
What set Terry apart was not simply his technical expertise, but the quiet grace and thoughtful demeanor with which he approached his work and his relationships. He had a relentless pursuit of the logical solution, coupled with a sincere concern for the well-being of his customers and friends.
Enviably, Terry accomplished exactly what his Creator put him on this earth to do. He passed as he lived—peacefully.
I speak for many in the aviation community when I say: “Terry, keep looking after us.”
Editor’s Note: Private pilot since 1987 based at Aurora Airport flying a ’61 C-180D and a ’56 D50 Twin Bonanza. A Warbirds of America member since 1987 and Chairman of the “Great Warbird Experience” Tour attraction at EAA AirVenture since 2012.
