George Michael Ogbatsion

He was born on June 19th, 1986, in Phoenix, Arizona, the youngest child to Godofai Ogbatsion and Abrehet Woldemichael. He grew up in Phoenix and was a member of the 2004 Class at Moon Valley High School.

George was an incredibly hard worker and a quick learner who mastered multiple trades throughout his life. He had a very diverse career, from spending many years in flooring demolition and installation, to working in the restaurant industry, manufacturing, and building garages and airport hangars. Most recently, he found his true professional home as a machinist rebuilding turbos at Turbo & Electric. George was incredibly excited about the future he was creating there and envisioned it as his long-term career. His co-workers provided an extraordinary community that gave him invaluable mentorship and guidance, both professionally and personally.

Outside of work, George enjoyed cooking, video games, hip-hop music, and loved buying scratchers tickets, though he rarely won. As an avid sports fan, his loyalty always belonged to his home teams, and he loved supporting the Cardinals, Suns, and Diamondbacks. He had a vibrant, wild side that brought undeniable energy to those around him; if you knew him, you knew. George had a way of lighting up every room he entered; no matter where he went, people knew exactly who he was. George had the most generous heart, had a profound love for his family and friends, his Eritrean community, and his neighbors. His distinct laugh and unforgettable presence will be deeply missed by all.

Becoming a father changed George entirely, shifting his life in a beautiful, positive direction. When Mikey was born, it was the absolute proudest day of his life and his greatest accomplishment. George was a dedicated father who treasured every second spent with his son. He loved the simple, joyful rhythms of quality father son time whether he was cooking meals for Mikey, taking long walks together, or just sharing quiet moments side by side. His devotion to his son was the ultimate driving force in his life.

George’s legacy will live on through his surviving family: his beloved son, Michael Tye Ogbatsion; his parents, Godofai Ogbatsion and Abrehet Woldemichael; and his siblings, Samson Godofai, Fortuna Godofai, and Steven Ogbatsion. He is also survived by his treasured nephews Micah, Isaiah, and Benyam, as well as a large, loving circle of extended family members and close friends.

George fought tirelessly for his parental rights and never stopped searching to locate his missing son, Michael. Even though circumstances kept them apart and he was unable to see "Mikey" for quite some time, his profound love for his son was always apparent. George spoke constantly of his greatest wish to see Mikey again, holding onto the beautiful hope of the day they would finally be reunited and embark on all the great adventures they were going to have together. If anyone has any information regarding the whereabouts of George's son, Michael Tye Ogbatsion, please contact the Godofai/ Ogbatsion family.

To Mikey: We will never stop fighting for you, and we want you to know how immensely you were loved and cherished by your father.

A service to celebrate George’s life will be held on Monday, June 22, 2026, at Resthaven Park Cemetery, located at 6450 W Northern Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301.

The family will welcome friends for a viewing from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, with the funeral service immediately following from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

George will be laid to rest during a burial service at 11:00 AM.