Norman Ahmet, former assistant vice-president human resources & employee relations at York University, died of cancer on Aug. 24 at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto. He was 68.
Left: Norman Ahmet
Mr. Ahmet began his career as a geography teacher at York Memorial Collegiate Institute in Toronto. He distinguished himself as a great advocate for young people and worked tirelessly in their best interest – as principal, superintendent, finally rising to the position of director of education and chief executive officer for the Board of Education for the City of York. With the amalgamation of the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) in 1997, he accepted the role of executive officer of human resources for the TDSB.
In 2000, he retired from the TDSB and became head of human resources at York, contributing eight years of his life to the University. He is described by his colleagues as a caring and kind man who was deeply committed to the York University community.
In addition to his many colleagues and friends at York, Mr. Ahmet leaves his wife Linda (née Goddard). He was the father of Alex (Hadi) and Byron (Sarah) and is predeceased by his mother Fitret, his father Bayram; and sisters Rita (Avni) and Rose.
A private funeral service was held on Aug. 26. Online condolences can be made on the Turner & Porter Web site, or on The Globe and Mail Web site.