Great-grandfather, teacher, musician, pilot was 99

Norman J. Taylor died on June 28, 2926. He was 99 years old.

Mr. Taylor was born in Buffalo, New York. He moved with his family to San Diego, California at age 9. He was in the Navy briefly but was discharged as World War II was ending. He then attended San Diego State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. He met his first wife, Kathryn, while at SDSU. They moved to Claremont in 1954 when Mr. Taylor became a math teacher at Claremont High School. He went on to have a 38-year career in Claremont schools as a teacher, administrator, and counselor. He was the first principal of San Antonio High School, holding that position for 10 years.

Mr. Taylor was a dedicated musician his whole life, starting on the trumpet at age 5, then took up the euphonium after leaving the Navy when he found a used instrument. He joined the Pomona Concert Band when he moved to Claremont and played with them until he was 95. It was in the band that Mr. Taylor met Linda, whom he married in 1983. They went on to found the Golden State British Brass Band while continuing with the Pomona Band.

Mr. Taylor was also an avid pilot, owning several airplanes over the years. Having obtained an instructor license, he taught many people to fly, including both his younger son, Norman, and Linda. He and Linda made several trips around the country in their Cessna Skylane.

Mr. Taylor is survived by his wife Linda, of Covina, California; son Howard, of Murrietta, California; son Norman (Catherine), of Virginia; grandson Tyson (Tiffany); and great-grandson Shane.

A memorial concert involving both the Pomona Concert Band and the Golden State British Brass Band will be planned for the near future.

https://claremontcourier.com/obituaries/obituary-norman-j-taylor-89204/