Born in 1922 in Detroit, Anthony Kushigian’s beginnings were humble as the son of Armenian immigrants. Growing up during the Great Depression made life even tougher. He once collected scrap metal for an entire summer in order to save 25 cents needed to purchase a stamp album.
Kushigian served in the Navy during World War II, earned a chemical engineering degree, and studied mechanical engineering at Wayne State University. He later distinguished himself through his work at Ford Motor Company and United Greenfield. Tony Kushigian went on to found Normac, Incorporated, a company with locations in Michigan and Arden, NC, that has revolutionized the way the world manufactures drill bits, taps, and saws.
Kushigian’s greatest pleasures in life were his family – his beloved wife of 35 years, Norma, and their children – and his garden, especially English oak trees, which he propagated wherever he went. Today, Tony Kushigian is remembered for his generous spirit.
In 1998 he came to the offices of The Community Foundation with an article in hand about the devastating effects of hunger, and with a determination to help ease the suffering of others in Western North Carolina. He established a field of interest fund – the Normac Endowment Fund – named for his company, with the purpose of helping children, adults and the elderly meet needs related to hunger and nutrition. One year later, Kushigian made a significant addition to his fund and expanded its purpose to also provide medical and prescription aid, so those in need wouldn’t have to choose between food and medicine. At his death in November of 1999, yet another generous gift was made through his will to the Normac Fund. Each year, grants are made from this fund to help our region’s neediest citizens.