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Christian Andrew Norvell - better known to some as Chris, Cramer, and Muff - came into this world on his own terms on October 30, 1990 in Fresno, CA. As a newborn, he faced a number of health issues that endangered his life. His parents, Scott and Wendi, clung to Psalm 139:16 ‘Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before they came to be’. It was in this scripture that they have found comfort and relinquished the timing of Chris’ life to the Lord. Though he wasn’t expected to have 33 days, his life served as a tangible symbol of grace and light for 33 years. Chris left us on February 1, 2024, here in Fresno. Growing up he was the typical kid - didn’t want to practice piano, loved riding bikes, laughed with siblings, and loved playing outside. He participated in Tae Kwon Do at Break the Barriers and advanced to the rank of first degree black belt.. He often stayed after class to spar with others. Chris loved going to the movies and ended up owning hundreds of DVDs - often called the family’s ‘Personal Blockbuster’. He also played video games of all kinds. You could tell how he was doing by his sometimes loud commentary as he played certain games. Chris will always be known for the impact he had on others around him. Although to some he may have seemed akin to a grumpy old man, he had a heart for serving others and reaching young children for Christ. While attending First Presbyterian Church with his family, Chris found joy serving in the Awana ministry and serving in summer bible school. He participated as a child in both ministries until he aged out and began serving. At First Pres he was also a faithful greeter/usher and loved seeing people as they arrived at church. As an adult, when he made the move to Campus Bible Church - he did it with service in mind. He wanted to continue reaching out to kids with the gospel through the Awana program. When that was no longer an option due to his work schedule he sought out Upward Basketball - this put his love of sports hand-in-hand with his love for working with kids. He also volunteered in various Sunday School classes and was involved in the Buddy Program, providing support for children with disabilities. Chris loved sports - all kinds - hockey, baseball, football, professional, college, high school - you name it and he had an interest. He was the family/friends reporter of statistics, injury reports, odds, and so much more. His favorite teams were UCLA, the Raiders, Mets, Chicago Bulls, Seattle Sounders, Anaheim Ducks and Manchester United. However - you may have seen him in any number of sports team merchandise. He was passionate about being the ultimate fan and would often buy hats/jerseys/shirts representing other teams. A lot of his teams had horrible records, but he (the ever faithful fan) would always bet co-workers on games…his punishment…wearing the opposing teams gear. Chris first started working at Kepler Neighborhood School where he was a playground supervisor. He would banter around with the staff and students and enjoyed his time working there. On the day that he died, one of the first responders, a Fresno Police Officer, recognized Chris and shared how he remembered Chris as being very kind and into sports. He and his brother would tease Chris by calling him by his first name, but Chris would sternly remind them that he was “Mr. Norvell.” After working at Kepler, Chris moved on to Smart & Final, where he was a service clerk. He started out collecting shopping carts in the parking lot. Among his family he earned the name “Cart Boy” and even had his own Facebook page. He would get his co-workers Starbucks on his breaks and after work hours would get on the speaker system and make his co-workers laugh with his Elmo voice and other voices he’d make up. If a co-worker needed a ride home, he always volunteered to take them home. We believe Chris developed his eclectic taste in music while working at Smart & Final. From the Beach Boys, to Frank Sinatra, Country Western, and the Backstreet Boys. He despised Christmas music only because at work the music would begin shortly after Halloween. Mariah Carey’s “All I want for Christmas is You” was one of his most unfavorite which, of course, made all of us that knew it, want to play it more around him. Chris wanted to expand his work experience so he started working at the Brownie Baker. If Chris had to be at work by 12, a 5 minute drive from the house, he’d leave at 11 because he didn’t want to be late. He was a responsible worker who took his job seriously. If he made a mistake at work, he would come home telling us that the next day he would be called in and his head was going to roll. We don’t know if he was ever in danger of losing his job, but he continued working. At the Brownie Baker he’d talk kindly about his co workers and would offer a ride home if anyone needed one. Although Chris never married, he poured his heart and soul into being an uncle (or Funkle, as he called himself). He LOVED Amanda, Katie, and Hudson. If someone needed to be babysat, he would reorganize his schedule. A kiddo was sick? He would show up with coffee for mom and take a turn holding the baby. Someone looked twice at a screen when sports was on? He showed up with baby New York Mets shoes. Someone wanted a TV show on? No problem, ask Uncle Chris! He danced with Amanda, chased Katie, and made Hudson giggle. His siblings will continue to honor his memory by speaking of him often to the kids. Chris is survived by his parents, Scott & Wendi Norvell; siblings Luke & Valerie Norvell and Kaylene & Doug Durbin; nieces Amanda and Katie; nephew Hudson; grandparents Les & Glenna Morris and Ross & Joan Norvell; along with uncles, aunts, and cousins. Words can’t describe how much Chris is missed by those who knew him - but the family takes solace knowing that he passed peacefully in his sleep and woke up in the arms of Jesus. A family friend said that he imagines heaven isn’t as quiet now and pictures Chris with an unbridled enthusiasm when he was greeted by Christ - and that brings a smile to our faces.

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Christian Andrew Norvell

October 30, 1990 - February 1, 2024