Norman V. Edmonson Jr.

Norman V. Edmonson, Jr., 81, devoted husband, father and friend, died April 12 following a three-year battle with cancer. A long-time resident of Delaware County, Norm grew up in Folsom, graduating with honors from Ridley High School in 1957. He attended Yale University on a Naval ROTC scholarship, graduating with a degree in chemical engineering, then served four years in the U.S. Navy. Following his service, he earned an MBA from Harvard University in 1968.
His career progressed through a series of corporate positions, culminating in a move to Sun Oil in 1977 where he helped oversee the creation of its new Sun Distributors division. As part of the management staff, he and his colleagues took the company private as SunSource. He retired as executive vice president in 1998. As busy in retirement as in his working years, Norm was retained as a consultant to his former firm for a time. He sat on several boards at Crozer Chester Medical Center and was an active member of Swarthmore Presbyterian Church, serving on the Investment Committee until shortly before his death.
Norm enjoyed traveling (he and his wife Polly visited all seven continents, going to Antarctica twice!), fishing, gardening, and Penn State football. He particularly loved spending time with friends, family, and his beloved golden retrievers, especially at his vacation home on Cape Cod. He had a deep love of classical music and enjoyed attending performances of the Philadelphia Orchestra. A wine enthusiast, he took great joy in sharing his extensive collection with good friends over a fine meal.
Norm is survived by his wife of 40 years, Polly, son Michael Edmonson, daughter Catherine Edmonson Brown, stepsons John Hurst and David Hurst, and grandsons Trey Hurst and A.J. Hurst. He will be in our hearts forever.
A Memorial Service will be held at 4 pm on Wednesday, June 8 at Swarthmore Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Penn’s Abramson Cancer Center.