Norman Elwood Edkins

GEDCOM Note

As told to me on March 21, 2004:

After moving to Miami and completing his senior year of high school at Coral Gables HS, returned to the Philadelphia area and took classes at Temple University. Was about to enroll at Drexel University when, likely to be drafted into Korea, joined the Air Force in September, 1955. Served until May, 1959 in various locations, mostly in Europe.

After discharge, went to work at an various aircraft mechanics shops in Miami. In 1961, George Gadren asked him to return to Gadren Machine Company, where he had worked in High School and a few time since. He decided to come back and worked there for 12 years, until Gary and George finished college and took over.

Obituary: Norman passed away March 22, 2018 after five months of declining health. He is survived by his wife, Dolores of 45 years of happiness, brothers David and Gary, sisters Rosalie and Madeleine and eight nieces and nephews. Norm was born in Camden, NJ and was the oldest of his siblings. He cared and looked after them and was greatly loved and respected. After graduation from Coral Gables Senior High School he served in the USAF from 1955 to 1959. Upon completion of service time he worked in the family business, the Gadren Machine Co. in NJ, as a machinist and tool maker. After his marriage he relocated to Miami, FL where he was employed by American Sterilization Company (AMSCO) for 21 years as a technician serving South Florida hospitals. Following his retirement he volunteered and did hospice work for 15 years helping those in need. As an experienced machinist and mechanic he also volunteered to help restore vintage warbirds with the Valiant Air Command. He will be fondly remembered for his love of his family pets and unselfish care for others, always offering his help and friendship. Services were held for him on May 1st at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Cocoa, FL, followed by his being placed to rest in Cape Canaveral National Cemetery.