David Franklin Norris, lovingly known as "Tye Dye Dave," passed away this past week at his home in Bedford at the age of 68. Born November 2, 1956, his personality was as colorful as his trademark bandanas. David's life can be likened to chapters of a bestselling novel. At just 17, he joined the U.S. Army and proudly served as a tank driver stationed in Germany. In the 1980s, Bedford locals may remember the sight of David's multi-level converted school bus cruising through town, often headed to a Grateful Dead concert. Later, during his "bike club years", David enjoyed the freedom of the open road, logging countless miles in year-round weather, always atop a Harley Davidson. Later, he survived cancer.

Wherever he was, his guitar was always in arm's reach. Having learned to play by ear alone, David was most at home strumming chords and singing for others to enjoy. Music being his constant companion, he shared this knowledge with friends and family teaching them to play as well.

Above all, David's heart belonged to his family. His love for his parents, brothers, nie,ces, and nephews was unwavering and he proudly adhered to his self-proclaimed title of "Funcle"; a.k.a, the fun uncle. More than anything, he was a proud and adoring father to his two daughters Rachael and Mary and considered them his greatest accomplishment. That is until he became "Papa" to his four grandchildren: Juliana, Joshua, Collin, and John, his true pride and joy. He made every moment with them count, playing games, singing, and being a gentle teacher and sharing all he had.

David's storytelling was truly as colorful as his life. David was non-materialistic and believed in only having what you needed, and if you needed it more, he would give it to you, as his love of family was his true wealth.

David made his mark on this world, and it will seem a little less colorful without him. David is survived by his two daughters Rachael Riccio and Mary Norris, his former wife Theresa, his father Whitton E. Norris Jr., three brothers Whitton III ("Tony"), Andrew and Christopher, his beloved grandchildren; Juliana, Joshua, Collin and John, his nieces Chelsey and Stephanie, nephews Paul, Timothy, Sean and Jack. Friends and family are invited to a celebration of his life at the American Legion Post 221 in Bedford Massachusetts on October 12, 2025 at 3:00 PM and there will be a private family burial at a later date at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon, MA.