Norman Barry Epstein, 75, of Santa Monica, California, died of complications from lung cancer on May 5, surrounded by his family—where he most loved to be—and filled with gratitude for a life well-lived.

Born in Chicago on January 15, 1951, the son of Raymond and Betty Epstein, Norman grew up alongside his siblings Gail, David, and Harriet. After graduation from Harvard College, he moved to Los Angeles where his great love of music led him to build a distinguished career in the music industry that spanned more than three decades. His work included roles as a tour and artist manager for songwriters, including Karla Bonoff and Andrew Gold, whose hit tune "Thank You For Being a Friend" was written with Norman in mind. He also worked as an administrative executive at MCA Records and later served as Executive Vice President at Universal Music Group, where he earned the respect and admiration of colleagues across the industry for his judgment and expertise.

In Los Angeles, he met the love of his life, Shari Horowitz Epstein. They married in 1979 and became the proud parents of two children, Max and Sam. There was no question that family was the principal pleasure of Norman's life. After Shari's death in 2013, he found love again and, in 2016, married the songwriter and artist Karen Bahrampour, with whom he shared his later years.

An avid bicyclist who rode early mornings with his group of fellow cyclists, "the Milk Men," Norman also loved music, dancing, the Dodgers and the Lakers. He took game-playing seriously, from backgammon and the New York Times crossword to poker. He was a longtime and serious "Survivor" fan. He was also deeply committed to giving back. He co-founded the charity Ante Up For Africa and volunteered at Lincoln Middle School and at Santa Monica High School, generously sharing his time and spirit with the community.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; his sons Sam and Max; his daughter-in-law Paula; and his cherished grandchildren, Mia, Lucia, Ella Rose, Soren, Charlotte, Nava, and Giev, and many cousins, extended family members, and friends who will miss him deeply and remember him warmly. Norman will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, caring brother, and loyal friend. His warmth, generosity, and love of life left a lasting impression on all who knew him. A generous soul with a ready sense of humor, Norman would routinely wrap family and friends in great bear hugs of affection.