Norman R Taft, 82, passed away peacefully at home after a brief illness on Saturday, March 18, 2023.

He was born in Dorset, VT on April 15, 1940 to Aaron Taft and Norma Roberts Taft.  Norman attended Dorset Elementary School and then joined the United States Navy on May 30, 1957 – March 2, 1961.

Norman married the love of his life, Eleanor “Ellie” McCory Taft on June 2, 1962 at the Baptist Church in Manchester, VT.  Together they raised three children.

Norm wore “many hats” with his hard-working ethics.  He was a valued long-time employee of Ultramar Fuel in Manchester, VT.  He was a trustee for over 25 years of the Fraternal Order Eagles Club in Manchester and a member of the VFW.  Norm loved hunting and fishing.  He was often seen and remembered on the dance floor doing the Two-step with his wife, Ellie. 

Most of all, aside from his great laugh and friendly smile, he trained and drove harness horses for over 30 years. Mainly as a hobby, with his all-time favorite being Pomps Wee Bairn who he developed into a steady overnight racehorse in the upper classes at Saratoga, NY.  He was always ready for a game of Texas Hold Em which he played, and as well ran tournaments – Cribbage, Pitch and Golfing.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Eleanor “Ellie” Taft; his sister, Mavis Mettey of Granville, NY; and his brother, Edmond Taft of Manchester, VT.

He is survived by his daughter, Deborah “Deb” Ambrozaitis (Robert) of NC and MA, Randy Taft (Mali) of PA and NY, and Curtis Taft (Emily) of SC; sisters, Janis Ferenc (Paul) of VT, Janet Waite (Bruce) and Shirley Casey (David) all of Dorset VT; brother, Bradley Taft of Holland, MI; sister-in-law, Janet McCory of CT; grandchildren, Christopher Kapusta of NC, Cody Taft (Cara) of SC, Calliegh Taft of FL, Sadie Taft of SC, Brett Taft (Laura Elizabeth) of NJ; and Kristin Taft of NJ; four great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

There will not be memorial service held per Norm’s wishes.  He and his wife, Ellie, will rest in eternal peace in Dorset, VT.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Purple Haze Standardbred Adoption Program, PO Box 253, Oxford, NY 13830 or by phone, 518-669-2715.

Bumgarner Family Funeral Service is assisting the family.

Online condolences can be made at www.bumgarnerfunerals.com.