Norman D. Edwards

Norman D. Edwards, Jr., age 93, of Cheboygan passed away Friday, August 11, 2017 at his home. He was born July 24, 1924 in Pittsburgh, PA, the son of Norman and Maud (MacFarland) Edwards, Sr. On February 6, 1951 in Cheboygan, Norm married Janice Hermanson, a teacher, who preceded him in death in 1984.

At 17, Norm enlisted in the U.S. Navy during WWII and was honorably discharged in 1946. In 1950, he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and served during the Korean and Vietnam wars. He retired from the Coast Guard in 1968 as a Master Chief Gunner’s Mate.

Norm owned and operated the Northern Michigan Truss Co. as well as Northern Michigan Small Arms Repair and Refinishing. He had served as president for both the local A.A.R.P. chapter and the Tip of Michigan Organ Society.  He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans, the VFW (having served as Commander) and the American Legion. Norm had played in the “Bill Grew Trio” performing at Larson Hall and Cheboygan Health Care Center as well as many fund raisers and social events. He had participated in and served on the Executive Board of the Rivertown Follies, and was very active in the Northland Players having performed in over 50 productions.

Survivors include his two children, Norm, III of Wolverine and Jan Geiss of Dillon, CO, two granddaughters, Jennifer (Jason) Wharff of CA and Jessie Geiss of CO as well as his great grandson Julian Wharff whom he lovingly referred to as “The Little Emporer”. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lenore Ellis.

Norm’s family will host an open house at his home, 421 Dresser St., Cheboygan, on Saturday, August 19 from 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Memorial contributions may be directed to Hospice of the Straits.  Arrangements are being handled by the Nordman-Christian Funeral Home.

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