George H. Firestone

If George were to tell you his own life story he would start by telling you he was 'born at a very early age'. His gentle, caring and loving nature was always evident. He was known to friends and family as a trustworthy confidant who could provide advice with wisdom and balance. He treated everyone with kindness and generosity. George accepted the Lord as his savior at a Campus Crusade meeting at the university. Every day he would wake up early to read his Bible and have quiet time of devotion with the Lord. The greatest blessings of his life came from his faith in Jesus and love for his wife and family. He was a faithful husband, loving father and grandfather.

George grew up in Portland with his brother Mel, who was 13 months younger. They were pals all during childhood and beyond. He went to school at Oregon State University and the University of Oregon where he was an excellent student. He graduated from the University of Portland with a BA in Business Administration. He then served in the US Army during World War II. Upon applying to be an officer in the Army, he was honorably discharged in 1943 due to a heart murmur. After his discharge he continued his education and owned a printing shop in Portland, Oregon. George moved to Southern California in 1955 to study at the University of Southern California to become a Certified Public Accountant. Shortly after, he began his career as a CPA with several major accounting firms in the Los Angeles area.

George met and married the love of his life, Esther Hugi from Switzerland in November 1966, they just celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary. Their love was evident in how they treated each other, and George often told Esther that she was just perfect for him. In 1968, George and Esther had their son, Mark Steven and then their daughter, Jacqueline Denise in 1972. George was always patient, even through their teenage years. He was strict, but kind, and always available to help with homework (especially math!).

George became the Chief of Audits for the County of Orange in 1967. Then in 1979, George became the General Auditor for the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. He was passionate about his work, often considered a work-a-holic, serving several clients in addition to his full time job. And as Jackie remembers, he always had Rolo candies in his pockets for them when he came home late from work. George's life was blessed by his wife Esther, son Mark Steven Firestone, daughter in law Ann, daughter Jacqueline Denise TeSelle, son in law Christopher, and his 5 grandchildren, Jacob and Matthew Firestone and Kailey, Nathan, and Luke TeSelle.

Each of the grandchildren were asked to describe their Grandpa:

• Kailey, age 11, says "Grandpa was fun, lovable and I will miss him."

• Jake, age 11, says " Grandpa was kind, giving and I love him and will miss him."

• Nathan, age 9, says "Grandpa was fun and he gave me lots of love and affection. I'll miss him."

• Matt, age 8, says "Grandpa was awesome, handsome and a beautiful soul."

• Luke, age 6, says " Grandpa is nice and funny and I love him a lot."

We loved George very much and miss him. His passing has resulted in a void in all of our hearts and lives.

Arrangements under the direction of Eternal Hills Memorial Park, Oceanside, California.