George Phillip Escalera

Born on a working farm in Norwalk, California, on August 23, 1933, George grew up with strong values of hard work, family, and resilience. He graduated from Excelsior High School in 1951 and soon after proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Upon returning from service, he settled in Anaheim, California, where he began building a life rooted in love, service, and dedication.

On Valentine's Day in 1953, George married the love of his life, Loretta Carol Kinsall. Their marriage spanned 50 beautiful years until Loretta’s passing in 2003. Together, they raised four children and built a home filled with laughter, loyalty, and love.

George worked as a skilled mechanic and smog technician at Chrysler for over 30 years, eventually retiring in Detroit, Michigan, and coming home to sunny California. A man of many passions, he loved photography, camping in Kings Canyon, visiting California’s beaches and county fairs, and cheering on his favorite teams — the Anaheim Angels and the Los Angeles Rams. He was also known for his signature moustache, his sweet tooth for lemon meringue pie, and his sense of humor that lit up any room.

A true dog lover, George raised and showed Boxers over the years, giving them names as unique as their personalities: Casino Royale, Star, Hogee, and Doody.

George's greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his loving daughters, Debra Waller and Leslie Nelson; his cherished grandchildren, Blake Waller, Camillia Waller, Summer Nelson, and Seth Nelson; and his adored great-grandchildren, Calia Gomez, Kasper Gomez, and Wyatt Waller. He is also survived by his dear sisters Ramona “Sugar” Trujillo and Annie Sevillano, son-in-law Mark Waller, and nieces and nephews Mick, Peggy Ann, and Mary Kay.

He is reunited in eternal peace with his beloved wife Loretta, and his children Steven Escalera and Stacy Escalera.

George will be remembered for his generosity, his unwavering support for those he loved, his goofy spirit, and his deep devotion to family. Whether he was coaching softball, being silly with his grandkids, or simply enjoying a game on TV, George brought light and warmth to those around him.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Westminster Memorial Park – Lakeside Chapel. A service will follow at 12:00 p.m. in the same chapel, with a graveside service to be held immediately after at the Garden of Angels within Westminster Memorial Park.

George’s legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.