You may feel something is missing in the Norwich Community. You’d be right.

Coach George Echentile, age 92, a dedicated advocate for the youth of this community for over sixty years, died peacefully Saturday, October 13th with his family at his side.

If you knew George Echentile then, there is little more to be said. If you did not have the good fortune to experience George, then you missed out on knowing a very special man.

Former swim team member, Herman Smith, seemed to best describe George when he said, “While growing up in Norwich it seemed that wherever you went, whether it was the swimming pool or the “Y”, you would find George there.

He led by example and inspired us to become strong, contributing citizens and members of our own local communities."

Jim Dunne, contributor to the Evening Sun, said it all in a wonderful article featured in Friday’s, October 19th edition documenting George’s many accomplishments, accolades, and life.

George was pre-deceased by his parents, George and Christine Echentile.

He continues to be remembered and loved by Betty, his wife of 69 years, his daughter, Sandra Smith and her husband Robert, son Martin Echentile and his wife TerryAnn, daughter Christine Utter and fiancé John Dye, and son Robert Echentile, grandchildren, Robert, Stephen, Kalynn, Tyson, Bethany, and McKenzie, as well as many great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren.

In the words of his Grandsons, Rob and Steve Smith, “TRUE, is the word to sum it up! True to family, friends, jobs and students and the way life is lived.”

We love you Coach and know that you are having “Good Times”.

A memorial service officiated by Reverend Dr. David J. Spiegel, Sr., will be held at the First Baptist Church, 10 West Park Place, Norwich, NY on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at 11 am.

This will be followed by a Celebration of Life and the sharing of memories at the American Legion, 29 Sheldon Street, Norwich, NY from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

A light buffet will be served.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the First Baptist Church, 10 West Park Place, Norwich, NY, The Norwich Y, 68 North Broad Street, Norwich, NY, or The George Echentile Scholarship Fund, c/o Norwich City Schools, Midland Drive, Norwich, NY.

Arrangment are being handled by the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.