Lieutenant Colonel George P. Normandin, 79 of Binghamton, NY, passed away on the morning of October 13, 2026. He has battled a rare form of cancer since January 2026 and unfortunately lost that battle.
George was born in Cohoes, NY, an only child. Preceded in death by his parents, George R. and Elizabeth Normandin.
George had a remarkable and adventurous life with the love of his life, Kyong Cha Normandin (Kim). She will forever remember and cherish their 55 years of marriage. Kyong is his only survivor. George graduated from Catholic Central in Troy, NY, then attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and received a BA in Psychology. George served honorably in the United States Army. He worked at IBM, Singer Link and the United States Department of Defense. He was respected and remembered by his fellow service members and received many commendations including a letter of appreciation from Richard Nixon.
Kim was his first love, but the Adirondacks in their splendor and glory were his second love, especially in the fall. They hiked and camped there every year for his birthday.
George loved Astronomy. He joined the Kopernik Observatory in the late 70’s. He led the Amateur Astronomy Club and was President of the Kopernik Observatory for 26 years. He leaves behind a teaching and mentoring legacy in Astronomy. George will be greatly missed by many friends at Kopernik and The Adirondack Public Observatories. Art Cachiola long time friend of 40 years is one of those people that were very supportive of George’s life work in Astronomy as well as during George’s illness. George respected and appreciated all who were involved in the Astronomy world with him. There are just too many people to mention.
Kim Nomandin would like to extend many thanks and much gratitude to the staff of Absolute Care for taking care of George in his last days. Thanks to our friends, Mr. & Mrs. Yoo for the many ways they have helped and Kathy and Jeffrey Stark for the many tasks needed to be done for George and myself.
A Funeral Mass and Military Honors will be held on Wednesday November 4th, 2026 at St. James Catholic Church, 147 Main St. Johnson City, NY 13790 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Kopernik Observatory 698 Underwood Rd. Vestal, NY 13850 or the Adirondack Public Observatory PO BOX 1332, Tupper Lake, NY 12986. 518-359-3538