Carl Norris, 1934 - 2022
Jan. 20, 1934 - Feb. 16, 2022
The team roping world has lost another legend. It is with sadness we share the news that Carl Norris, 87 years old, of Fallon, Nevada, passed away Feb. 16, 2022. Carl was a champion heeler, master silversmith, horse trailer manufacturer and an astute businessmen.
Carl won the IRA champion heeler award in 1962 being the first team roper to win the award. He won ropings for many years, competing mainly in the West. Carl always opted to rope close to home so he could concentrate on his business dealings.
Carl successfully owned and operated Custom Trailers, selling horse and cattle trailers all over the country. Custom Trailers was the longest running trailer dealership in Nevada. He was instrumental in helping Bud Corwin start B & C Trailers in Manteca, Calif., and Joe Riggs start The Trailer Mart in Bakersfield, Calif.
Carl and Joe were not only roping partners but were partners in many adventures in their 66-year friendship. Their only losing business was their first endeavor, selling Christmas trees in Reno and Carson City in 1956. Both decided there must be a better way to make money, since they didn’t break even and never tried that again.
Carl had so many friends in the roping world. He loved roping at Oakdale and playing pitch with the guys. Leo always said as he entered a pitch game with Carl and Joe, “I wonder if I should even be playing cards with you two!” Carl traveled with a lively group of ropers, Joe, Herb Ingersoll and Sonny Blevins. Things were never dull and the memories were treasured and rehashed over and over.
Mike Beers loves to tell the story of overhearing Joe say to Carl after backing in the box at Winnemucca, “Carl, where do you want me to stand this steer while you coil up?” Carl had coiled up on the first steer and roped the second clean to win the roping! Mike still laughs when he tells the story.
Carl was one of the greatest silversmiths and engravers of all time. He loved helping others learn the craft. If you are one of the lucky ones to have a buckle, money clip, bracelet or cross made by Carl, you have a real treasure. The end of an era crafting handmade silver work.
Carl died peacefully at home with his loving wife of 50 years, Lynda Lamb Norris, by his side. He is also survived by his daughters, Mary Ellen Norris and Terri Campbell, numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Carl will be missed by his family and so many friends, especially by his old partner, Joe Riggs, who counted Carl as his best friend for life.