George Joseph Lechner

He attended UCLA and graduated from San Jose State University with a degree in Chemistry. George had a lifelong career in chemistry and safety engineering, working for McCormick-Selph, United Technologies Chemical Systems, Fairchild Semiconductor and Xerox. His work life led him into analyzing rocket motor fuels and space ordinance chemicals in the laboratory. While at Fairchild, he became an expert in hazardous materials and hazardous waste, which led him into the field of environmental engineering, ultimately becoming a Certified Industrial Hygienist.

George was kind, caring, compassionate, sociable, funny and very clever and always ready to lend a helping hand, whether in technology, working on cars, moving furniture or giving someone a ride. He was a take-charge person and was often chairman of the groups he belonged to, including the Willow Glen Homeowner's Association, the Xerox Golf League, and the local section of the American Chemical Society (ACS). He was a 50-year member of ACS and was enthusiastic about bringing the mysteries of chemistry to all. He mentored other members of ACS, helped train the teachers at Santa Clara University, judged many science fairs and recently participated in Pop-up Chemistry in Redwood City, the Intel Science Fair, and the High School Chemistry Olympiad.

George is survived by Diane Lechner, his loving wife of 57 years, and his children and daughter's-in-law, Cathy Lechner, Jim Lechner and Susan Fu, Eric Lechner and Kristin Dyer, and Tom Lechner, and his grandchildren Evelyn, Greg, Freeman and Verity. He is also survived by his siblings Roy (Barbara) Lechner, Monsignor Roger Lechner, Georganne Lechner, John (Mary Jean) Lechner, Rob (Judy) Lechner, and Paul Lechner.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 19, at 10:00 a.m., at Holy Family Catholic Parish, 4848 Pearl Avenue, San Jose.

Donations can be made in George's memory to Sacred Heart Community Service, 1381 S. First Street, San Jose, CA 95110, or to the charity of your choice.