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BORN
1934
DIED
2018
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Norman Edge Obituary
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.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Norman Edge
Sponsored by Costello-Runyon Funeral Home - Metuchen.
George Nimmo
May 31, 2024
Six years. In some ways, it seems like only yesterday and yet in others it seems like eons ago. We still miss you, brother. Play on...
George Nimmo
May 31, 2023
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.
Tom Sales
May 31, 2022
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.
Turi morreale
December 15, 2021
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
Tom Sales
December 27, 2020
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.
George Nimmo
September 7, 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.
March 20, 2019
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
Nick T
August 15, 2018
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.
Judy Trocola Palumbo
August 1, 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.
Ray Passacantando
July 24, 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
Bob McHugh
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.
Jeff Brillinger
June 9, 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
Phyllis Monroe
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.
Mary Martin Cabana
June 7, 2018
Jane, I'm so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless
June 7, 2018
Jane, I'm so very sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
CHARLES LEONARD
June 7, 2018
Thank you for the music. Peace.
Roberta Newman
June 7, 2018
Jane and family,
Please accept my deepest condolences on your loss. I'm so very sorry.
Irina Beseda
June 6, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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)
Showing 1 - 25 of 25 results
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Memorial Events
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Jun
10
Memorial service
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Costello-Runyon Funeral Home - Metuchen568 Middlesex Avenue (Route 27), Metuchen, NJ 08840
Funeral services provided by:
Costello-Runyon Funeral Home - Metuchen568 Middlesex Avenue (Route 27), Metuchen, NJ 08840
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