George "Jorge" Casiano

GEORGE CASIANO, 75, of Avilla, Indiana peacefully passed away in the late evening hours of Friday, June 18, 2021, at the VA Hospital in Marion, Indiana George spent the last several years of his life fighting the effects of Parkinson's disease. George's family would like to thank the wonderful staff at the Marion VA who have cared for George this past year.

Born February 7, 1946, in Carrizo Springs, Texas, George grew up in Paulding, Ohio, and played football at Paulding High School. His senior year, he was voted "most polite". George served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam from 1965 to 1967. He earned the United States Armed Forces prestigious Silver Star award for his gallantry in action on Dec. 27, 1966, while serving in the Reconnaissance Platoon, 3rd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. George reunited with his fellow soldiers and remained close throughout the years - Colonel Crumley, Jim Jewell, Tom Thompson, Ricky Arrouzzet, Sargent Owens, Robert Schiltzer (RIP), and Robert Oliver.

Later in life George met his wife Lori. George always referred to Lori as "the love of his life". The couple has so many great memories with family and friends, travels to Cancun, meeting people, hosting parties, and constant laughing and dancing.

George and Lori blended their children Tony, Paul and April into a family that he would do anything for. George then became "Hapaw" to six grandchildren. He loved and cherished the time spent with them.

George was a big football fan. He enjoyed watching his boys and grandsons play football and never missed a game. George also loved tailgating and attending Notre Dame football games with his boys and their cousin Doug (Groves).

George worked very hard to support his family. He retired from General Motors as a millwright after 30 years of dedicated service. George was very engaged in the U.A.W.

After retirement, George and Lori moved to Georgia for a few years and then transferred back to Indiana where they bought a beautiful country home which served as a great location for family get-togethers and parties. George was known to many people for his infectious smile and laugh, undeniable dance moves, and his generosity.

"We know that George will be with us in our hearts and we will meet again in heaven. It's time to celebrate his life."

George leaves behind his wife of 36 years, Lori; children, Tony (Deanna) Casiano, Paul (Michelle) Casiano and April Casiano-Lee (Jason); six grandchildren, Maria, Isaac, Olivia, Jordan, Jax, and Niya; brothers, Ramon (MaryJane) Casiano and Rudolfo (Carol) Casiano; and sisters, Alicia (Kerry) Appleton, Esperanza (Fred) Rhode, Maria Lena (Mark) Jansen, Belinda Moreno, Lucia (Patrick) Weaver, and Dora Elia (Rick) Commay. George was preceded in death by his parents, Eusebio Casiano and Odilia Guzman; brother-in-law, David Moreno; and his cousin / best friend, Gilbert Rosalez.

A Celebration of Life is 11 a.m. Friday, June 25, 2021, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1502 E. Wallen Road, Fort Wayne (IN 46825), with visitation one hour before service. Visitation also from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday, June 24, 2021, at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. Dupont Road, Fort Wayne (IN 46825). Burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park.

To send condolences, visit www.domccombandsons.com