Norman Herman Tallmadge
Norman Herman Tallmadge passed away October 7, 2024 at the age of 86 with his family by his side.
The son of the late Frank Tallmadge (Mary) and Alice Petrunger (Jim), he was born in Erie, PA on June 8, 1938, where he lived his whole life.
Norm spent most of his life in the McKean area that is the homestead of both parents. He served in the Marine Corps reserves. Shortly after his service he married Margaret Polagyi with whom he shared the rest of his life, and together raised his family that was the center of his life.
Norm was drawn toward construction and at an early age developed mastery in running heavy equipment. He was a member of the Operating Engineers Local 66 Labor Union since 1959. He was involved in building sections of I-90 and the Willow Bay area of the Kinzua Dam in early work. For the 30yrs+ majority of his career he worked at Erie Sand & Gravel running high lifts and cranes, making lifts, and unloading a sand dredge. He was a dedicated and loved employee, and very much liked his ESG ‘family’.
Norm had a zest for life, was rarely idle and had many interests that he pursued with much vigor. He raised chickens, goats, and even had a horse in his 30’s. He got into running in his 40’s and ran a couple marathons. He was an avid racquetball player in his 50’s and 60’s at Nautilus. After he retired, he skied weekly with his children/grandchildren. He enjoyed making wine with his sons. In his 70’s he and Margaret enjoyed regular exercise and camaraderie at Pennbriar. Norm was a skillful builder/craftsman and always had projects underway building furniture, renovating/remodeling his house, and helping his children with projects at their houses. He passed along many skills. Norm was happy and physically healthy all the way into his early 80’s. He had a great sense of humor, lots of ambition, was always willing to help others, and fostered real and positive rapport with family and friends around him. His positive and upbeat nature will be sadly missed.
Norm is survived by three children, Jack Tallmadge (Weslene), Susan Armstrong (Gary), and Chad Tallmadge. Norm is also survived by six grandchildren, Rachel Keberle (Tyler), Zachary Tallmadge (Anna), Emily Tallmadge, DJ Armstrong, Jacob Tallmadge, Megan Tallmadge; three great grandchildren, Hansel, Morgan and Ava, as well as a half-brother, half-sister, half sisters-in-law, several nephews, nieces, and longtime friends.
In addition to his parents, Norm was preceded in death 2 years prior by Margaret Rose Tallmadge, his wife for over 60 years, and 2 half-brothers.
At Norm’s request, the funeral will be private.