Michael John Norvell

Michael John Norvell passed away on August 2, 2025, in Pendleton, Oregon, the city where he was born on December 16, 1953, to John L. Norvell of Helix, Oregon and Caryl J. (Long) Kilgore of Pendleton, Oregon. He was 71 years old.

A lifelong Oregonian, Mike graduated from Pendleton High School in 1972. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Oregon, focusing on Clinical Social Work and Criminal Justice. His commitment to mental health and social services led him to pursue further education, earning a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Oregon State University and another Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Walla Walla College.

Mike dedicated his life to helping others through his work in mental health and social services. In 1982, he became Executive Director of the Ketchikan Children’s Homes, where he worked tirelessly to support vulnerable youth. In 1994, he began a new chapter at the Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution as the Mental Health Services Manager. There, he pioneered a groundbreaking community-based model within the prison system—the first of its kind in the United States—which earned national recognition and contributed to the institution being named Institution of the Year.

Throughout his career, Mike remained deeply committed to improving lives through compassionate care and innovative approaches. He took great pride in his professional accomplishments and the positive impact he made on countless individuals.

Beyond his professional life, Mike embraced a wide range of passions. In his youth, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout and excelled in tennis, competing in men’s singles throughout high school and earning a place in the state Boys Tennis Tournament. He also nurtured his creative side—writing poetry, playing piano and guitar—and found great joy in the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting.

In retirement, Mike embraced a quieter life with his wife Beth Rachel Brouillard. Together they enjoyed gardening and exploring the beauty of the Oregon coast. His greatest pride was his family—especially his daughter Jessica M. Lavadour and her children.

Mike is survived by his daughter Jessica Lavadour (Calib Wilson); granddaughter Layla Winburn; grandson Jojo Wilson; wife Beth Brouillard; aunt Corinne Swearingen; sister Linda Norvell King (Bill King); as well as many cousins, stepsons, step-grandchildren, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents and niece, Julie A. McAleer.

Mike’s faith was central to his life, and his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched with compassion, dedication, and his love of Jesus.

In place of flowers, donations may be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, (https://www.nami.org) or 4301 Wilson Blvd., Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22203.

Graveside inurnment service will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 10AM.