Norman A. Trudel, the founder and former CEO of GMI Insurance Services, died Nov. 11 in his home in Schuylkill Township, Penn. He was 77 years old.

Trudel formed GMI in 1980 in Phoenixville, Penn., and had more than 50 years experience in the insurance industry. Born in Norwalk, Conn., Trudel was the son of the late Amede and Eva Trudel. He was a graduate of the Assumption Preparatory School in Worcester, Mass., and the University of Connecticut, where he was president of the Sigma Chi fraternity. Trudel was also a military veteran and served as a 2nd lieutenant during the Korean War.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Jeanne Trudel, a daughter, three sons, one sister, 10 grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Trudel’s funeral was held Nov. 20 in Phoenixville, Penn. The burial was held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Trudel’s name to Melanoma Research Foundation, 170 Township Line Road, Bldg. B, Hillsborough, N.J. 08844. Condolences may be made online at www.PhoenixvilleFuneralHome.com.