Norman Edge

1934 - 2018

Norman Edge obituary, 1934-2018, 84, Metuchen

BORN

1934

DIED

2018

FUNERAL HOME

Costello-Runyon Funeral Home - Metuchen

568 Middlesex Avenue

Metuchen, New Jersey

Norman Edge Obituary

Norman Edge

Metuchen - Norman F. Edge, long-time resident of Metuchen, NJ passed away on June 4, 2018. He was born on April 29, 1934 in Jersey City. He leaves a long legacy of living life to its fullest, spreading kindness and compassion, and sharing music. Norman served in the Army where he played in the Army Band, and also served in the National Guard for several years. While still in the service he met his long-time musical partner, Morris Nanton. That musical partnership, with Norman on double-bass, lasted over 50 years and brought joy to thousands.

In 1973, Norman married the love of his life, Jane. They have three children, Jennifer Edge, Jessica Edge Negrete, and Jonathan Edge and three grandchildren Sebastian, Simon, and Samuel. He loved his whole family fully and unconditionally. He was a family man. He had a large network of friends; once he knew you, you became family.

He was a long-time public educator in the Edison school system. He played in more orchestras and jazz bands then can be named in this space. He continued to take bass students privately.

It's impossible to describe the life of Norman in a few lines. To know him was to love him. His super power was to see you for your best self. He shared his emotions willingly, laughing with gusto. He had a great capacity to see joy and beauty in all of God's creations. His faith in his Creator was absolute. He was a rock for many people. To honor his memory, be kind to each other, listen to live music, and be open to joy. A few of his favorite charities include St. Jude's and World Vision. Norman was a life-long Baptist, but for the past year had found a welcome home at the First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen. He truly admired their contributions to community, especially Habitat for Humanity. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, June 10, 2018 at 1-4 pm in the Costello-Runyon Funeral Home, 568 Middlesex Avenue (Rt. 27) Metuchen. To send condolences visit www.costello-runyon.com.

Published by Home News Tribune on Jun. 6, 2018.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Norman Edge

Sponsored by Costello-Runyon Funeral Home - Metuchen.

Not sure what to say?





Five years - sigh. Has it really been that long, already? RIP, Norman, and, wherever you may be, I hope that bass is still in tune and sounding as good as ever.

George Nimmo

May 31, 2023

One fond memory I have is of Norman telling me about taking a class to perform at the Garden State Arts Center. They had to unload their equipment from the bus, in a blinding rainstorm, in the REAR of the building, through the mud, next to a smelly garbage dumpster.

Later, when all his students were assembled, all thoroughly soaked, he told them, "Welcome to the wonderful world of music!"

He was a great player, and an insightful musician and person. I miss knowing that he's in the world.

Tom Sales

Other

May 31, 2022

Jane,
I idid not know of Norman´s passing. He was the best teacher I ever had and a wonderful friend.
He was always positive and a huge influence on my outlook on not only my playing , but my approach to life in general. I loved him very much, and I will never Forget him.
I hope that you and the family are well.
I still quote him to my clients.
The most prominent phase I remember was " form follows function. This has never left me and I will always remember him with love in my heart.
Sincerely ,
Turi

Turi morreale

December 15, 2021

I hadn't heard of Norman's passing, and it sorrows me greatly. He was a GREAT musician! My wife and I spent many, many hours at the Cove listening to The Morris Nanton Trio. They also played our wedding in 1975. I studied piano with Morris, but I learned just as much about jazz by listening to the rock-solid bass lines Norman laid down. He was the best bass player I ever met, in my 50 year career as a musician.

Tom Sales

Acquaintance

December 27, 2020

Just learned of Norman's passing - a great sadness. I saw him a in a pit orchestra shortly before his death and shared a nice conversation with him. He is missed and it may be somewhat trite, but his kind shall not pass this way again. May your journey in the spirit world be everlasting.

George Nimmo

Acquaintance

September 7, 2020

My Sympathy....Didn't know of Normans passing ! I was one of his many admirers at The Cove in Roselle NJ . What a guy ! May he Rest In Peace !
Anita Murphy

March 20, 2019

Mr. Edge was my orchestra teacher for 5 years in middle and high school in the 90s. He was incredibly dedicated to music and inspiring students to be their very best. I owe my ability to play the violin to this day in many regards to him. He inspired so many people. Thank you Mr. Edge, and thanks for the jelly beans! You will be missed.

Nick T

August 15, 2018

I just learned today of Norman's passing and want to extend my most sincere condolences to Jane and family. My mother, Erna, began taking me to hear the trio when I was 16 years old. Norman would spend time talking to us in a way that I used to describe as cosmic. His enthusiasm for life and all of the good that it offered was contagious. I remember how his face would light up when he spoke of Jane and then his children. As years past, our contact was limited but he was often thought of. I am so saddened by this loss but so grateful that I had the chance to know him.

Judy Trocola Palumbo

August 1, 2018

Morris Nanton and I were kids together in Perth Amboy. I go back with Norman from the early days of the "trio". What talent. They brought joy and happiness to so many, and it wouldn't surprise me to learn that they are now up in Heaven, serenading the angels with their beautiful "How do You Keep the Music Playing?" Gonna miss you, Norman. God Bless.

Ray Passacantando

July 24, 2018

Jane and family...I came from Perth Amboy. Morris Nanton and I were neighbors and old friends from the 50s. My friendship with your beloved Norman goes back that far. What a great guy! I heard the trio play just about every place they played. They created a lot of smiles and happiness for so many for so long. Norman was a delight and a joy who will be greatly missed. If I know those guys though, they're both up there in Heaven playing for the angels. God bless you, Norman. I'll see you again. Ray

Ray Passacantando

July 24, 2018

Ray Passacantando

July 23, 2018

LEON HEMBREE

June 11, 2018

Jane and Family

It was a great pleasure to know and work with Norman. His presence added great value to the lives to all of us who knew him. He will be greatly missed.

Bob McHugh

June 11, 2018

Jane and Family -

I am very saddened to learn of Norman's passing. He was very good to me and I have lots of great memories of playing with him. Will always remember his incredible energy.

My condolences to all,
Jeff Brillinger

Jeff Brillinger

June 9, 2018

To the Edge Family. My name is Phyllis Monroe. Mr. Edge was my son Ramon's orchestra teacher when he was in the 8th grade. Mr. Edge introduced Ramon to the upright bass. He was such an inspiration in my son's life. Ramon graduated in '97 and that was probably the last contact we had with Mr. Edge. But when I heard Mr. Edge had passed away, it felt like we had just seen him yesterday. What an impact of cherished memories. My sincere condolences to his family. And thanks for sharing your husband and dad.

Phyllis Monroe

June 9, 2018

Jane, I'm so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless

Mary Martin Cabana

June 7, 2018

Jane, I'm so very sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

June 7, 2018

Thank you for the music. Peace.

CHARLES LEONARD

June 7, 2018

Jane and family,
Please accept my deepest condolences on your loss. I'm so very sorry.

Roberta Newman

June 7, 2018

Richard Adams

June 6, 2018

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Irina Beseda

June 6, 2018

My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Norman. May God grant you strength, as you reflect on His promise to do away with sickness and death forever. (Isaiah 33;24 & 25:8).

June 6, 2018

My sincere deepest sympathy to Jane and all of the family members. Joanne Bianco

June 6, 2018

Dear Family, I am so sorry for your loss. May God comfort you and your family during this very difficult time. (Psalms 55;22)

June 6, 2018

Showing 1 - 24 of 24 results

Make a Donation
in Norman Edge's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for Norman Edge

Jun

10

Memorial service

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Costello-Runyon Funeral Home - Metuchen

568 Middlesex Avenue (Route 27), Metuchen, NJ 08840

Funeral services provided by:

Costello-Runyon Funeral Home - Metuchen

568 Middlesex Avenue (Route 27), Metuchen, NJ 08840

How to support Norman's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Norman Edge's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more