Obituary of Norman Esch

Norman Edward Blake Esch 1918 - 2010 Peacefully at Sunnybrook Hospital on Wednesday, August 25, 2010 surrounded by his family. Beloved husband and best friend of Bette Esch (Barrett). Predeceased by his wives Ada May (Ralston) Esch and Diana (Burr) Esch. Father of David Esch (Joanna), Nancy Povey (John) and Wendy Petcoff (Dan). "Poppa" to Blake and Deanna. Brother of Miriam Ardagh ( the late John Ardagh) and Wilma Lovekin. Norm will be lovingly remembered by the blended Barrett family: Larry (Barb), Scott (Lee) and Bruce as well as his many nieces and nephews. Norm had a great zest for life as seen in his love of the outdoors and his competitive nature. He was an avid fisherman who travelled to some of the world's great fishing destinations; Campbell River in B.C., and the Tamar River in Devon, England, and the Miramichi River in New Brunswick Norm was the ultimate competitor. From cribbage to backgammon, from sports to business, he played to win. He was a great salesman which led him to become a driving force behind the printing industry in Toronto. The founder of Graphic Litho-Plate, the owner of Roto-tone Gravure and many other related companies, Norm was a highly regarded business leader. He was also a lover of music who played the piano and inspired many a rousing sing-a-long. For awhile he conducted the orchestra at his church. Norm was a philanthropist who donated generously to many charities including Trinity St. Paul's Church on Bloor Street and created The Esch Foundation. Family man, outdoorsman, musician, businessman, life of the party and leader of men. Gone but not forgotten and sadly missed by all. The family will receive friends at the HUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME - A.W. MILES CHAPEL, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville Avenue) from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Sunday, August 29, 2010. Funeral service in the chapel on Monday, August 30 at 10:00 a.m. Private family interment Prospect Cemetery. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.