Norman H. Kimball Obituary, EDMONTON, Alberta — Norman H. Kimball, one of the most influential executives in Canadian football history and a longtime cornerstone of the Edmonton Eskimos organization, passed away on September 25 at the age of 96. His career was marked by leadership, vision, and nearly two decades of executive service with Edmonton.
Kimball joined the Edmonton Eskimos organization in 1961 and became the club’s general manager in 1966. He remained in that position until 1985, overseeing the franchise during one of the most successful periods in its history and helping establish Edmonton as a dominant force in the Canadian Football League.
During Kimball’s tenure as general manager, the Eskimos captured six Grey Cup championships. The team won the championship in 1975 before achieving an extraordinary run of five consecutive Grey Cup victories from 1978 through 1982. His nearly 20 years of stewardship remain a defining chapter in the franchise’s history.
Kimball’s influence also extended beyond Edmonton. From 1971 to 1974, he served as Chairman of the CFL General Managers, contributing to league-wide leadership during a period of growth and modernization. In 1975, he became Chairman of the CFL’s Player Relations Committee, where he played a role in strengthening communication and negotiation structures between teams and players.
Following his departure from Edmonton, Kimball continued his executive career with the Montreal Alouettes. He served as the organization’s President and Chief Operating Officer from 1986 to 1987, bringing his extensive football management experience to the franchise during a challenging period.
Kimball’s contributions to Canadian football were recognized with his induction into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame as a builder on May 11, 1991. Two decades later, in 2011, he was inducted into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame, further recognizing his lasting contribution to the province’s sporting history.
Throughout his career, Kimball was associated with organizational leadership, championship success, and the development of Canadian football. His work helped shape the Edmonton Eskimos during one of the most successful eras in CFL history and left an enduring mark on the league.
Norman H. Kimball will be remembered for his long service to Canadian football and his role in building successful organizations and championship teams. As his family, friends, colleagues, and the wider football community mourn his passing, his contributions to the sport remain an important part of Canadian football history. May he rest in peace.
