John Norbert de Gorter

John Norbert de Gorter John de Gorter, 81, of Charlotte, NC., died peacefully at Presbyterian Hospital Wednesday, September 16, 2009, surrounded by his family. John was born in Jamaica, Queens, New York on April 14th, 1928. He was the son of Daniel De Gorter and Lea Van Haelst, who have preceded him in death. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Denise; his daughter Deborah of Bethesda, Maryland; his son Richard Daniel of Merrick, New York; his son Peter of Charlotte, NC; and his sister, Francine Chrisler-Moloney of St. Louis, Missouri. He was blessed with 9 beautiful grandchildren. John attended high school at Deerfield Academy, where he was actively involved in sports such as Lacrosse, was well known for his school spirit and was a proud member of the class of 1946. He went on to receive his Bachelor's Degree from Columbia University in Manhattan and his Masters Degree in Business from Hofstra University located in Hempstead, Long Island. John's achievements included being a member of the National Glass Association since its inception. He also had the honor of being elected President of the Belgian American Chamber of Commerce from 1981 through 1985, helping to promote business activities between Belgian and American companies. In 1992 he was inducted into the Chevalier de L'Ordre de Coteaux de Champagne. Founded in the 17th Century the role of the Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne is to promote the wines of Champagne, their unique features, their ways of consumption and everything which contributes to their reputation and their image as the most prestigious symbol of success and celebration. John was well known and respected in the Flat Glass Industry, where he worked for over 60 years. He and his father, Daniel were responsible for the importation of glass from Belgium and France. Later, they founded Franklin Glass Company which held the patent for manufacturing the first bronze sheet glass in the United States. Franklin Glass has products in such well known buildings as the Seagram Building in Manhattan and the United States Air Force Academy just outside of Colorado Springs. In the early 1970's, John had the foresight to begin importing glass fabricating machinery from Europe and became a leader in that field until his retirement from John De Gorter, Inc., in 2007. John was well known throughout the flat glass machinery trade and will be remembered by his peers for his endless drive and determination along with his pleasant ways. John loved to be active. He played tennis at every opportunity, golf was another sport he enjoyed. His all time passion was fishing and fly fishing in particular. Many a time he would be seen on a river, disappearing underwater, his fly rod and arm extended above water while fighting a fish. He ruined more cameras and other equipment because of this, but rarely lost a fish. He had a true love for the outdoors and Nature in general. John and Denise were World Travelers. John took his wife and family on extensive trips throughout the United States, Europe and the Carribean. He wanted his family to enjoy the wonders this World has to offer. He instilled upon his family his beliefs in education and compassion, in understanding others and the appreciation of life. He was a loving husband, an understanding father. John was full of energy, a gracious host, with an indelible smile that will always be remembered. Visitation will be on Sunday September 20, 2009 from 4 to 6 P.M. at the Harry and Bryant Company located at 500 Providence Road, Charlotte. Funeral service will be at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, September 21, 2009 at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 3016 Providence Road, Charlotte. John wished to have memorial donations made to The American Cancer Society.