Norman Finkel

Norman S. Finkel, aged 94, passed away on July 8, 2024, in Philadelphia, PA, surrounded by his family. Born on January 1, 1930, in Brooklyn, New York, he was a pioneering figure in the childcare industry and a devoted family man. Norman grew up in Borough Park and graduated from Utrecht High School before earning his undergraduate degree from Brooklyn College. He furthered his education with a Master's in Social Work from Washington University of St. Louis. His commitment to education was a cornerstone of his career and personal philosophy.

After serving a brief stint in the Army in Texas he embarked on a remarkable career in the day care field. For thirty years, Norman was the Executive Director of Federation Day Care Services, now known as FELS. Under his leadership, the agency expanded from a modest two-room nursery school to eleven thriving centers, significantly impacting the lives of many families throughout the region. 

Norman was passionate about world affairs and politics, and he enjoyed following Philadelphia sports teams. He also found joy in betting on horses with his close friend, Petey. With his wife Edith, he supported her interest in taking care of a colony of "outdoor" cats. He enjoyed writing and had an amazing memory and a way with words. He wrote these memories down for his family to enjoy. Known for sending numerous emails and phone calls to family and friends, Norman kept everyone aware of what was going on in the world. These hobbies were a reflection of his spirited and engaging personality. 

He leaves behind his wife, Edith, sons Andy and Stephen, and daughter Riva (David) and sister Toby Deligdish. He was a proud grandfather to Emma (Nick), Robert, and Tess. Norman was preceded in death by his parents, Abraham and Miriam Finkel, his beloved daughter-in-law Carolyn Scheppner, brother-in-law Rudy Deligdish, nephew Stanley Berman and life long best friend, Ted Levine. Special thank you to Walter Cole and Tiggy Crowder, our home health care aides, who showed compassion, dedication and friendship.

Funeral Services will be held at Goldsteins' Rosenberg's Funeral Directors Suburban North, 310 Second Street Pike, Southampton, PA on Friday, July 12th at 1:30. Interment to follow at Shalom Memorial Park. Shiva will be observed at the family's residence. Norman's legacy will live on through his family and the many lives he touched through his professional and personal endeavors. Contributions in his memory can be made to the Norman S. Finkel Scholarship Fund c/o FELS 10700 Jamison Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19116