George will always remind me of how, regardless of position or caste, one can comport themselves with great class and sophistication. He could take the most simple objects or scenarios and with a little effort or a few key words, bring to life the beauty of a situation. He was unfailingly refined and cultured. If anyone ever had a fashion question, or query of how to concoct an elegant fare, he was there to guide.
He put a lot of love, care, and attention in his giving. Looking back, he expressed affection with giving, though he seemed to appreciate quality time as way of receiving love. I recall his gift wrapping was beyond reproach. Everything sent was done with style and panache. As though the contents of the box was curated with equal care and attention as was the outside of the gift.
George’s proficiency for elegance and passion for architecture served him well during his long tenure designing the store displays for Nordstrom in Portland, Oregon.
George was amazing at taking relatively normal items, mixed with his eye for flair, and creating something gracefully new. George saw the wonder and magnificence in the world.
In George’s youth he had a bad injury but recovered and learned to live a blessed life anyway.
Sometime in the late 2000’s, early 2010’s, George had another injury. I believe after that, life and change became much more challenging for him. Around that time he moved to Seattle.
Walking around with George in his social sphere, it was nearly impossible to not run into someone that he had positively impacted. Whether it was cashier at a store, or a person that was destitute in any number of ways, George would share compassion and instill encouragement with those he had in his care. Always ending the interaction with an inspirational or encouraging blessing.
The last time we got together in person, was with my parents, Tina (his sister), and of course, George. It was late September 2014, still warm outside, and we comfortably meandered around the Space Needle in Seattle, WA. Touring one of the parks, we saw a large group of children playing in the water feature nearby, squealing with boisterous delight.
I don’t exactly remember why, but George began imitating the children’s pleasant enthusiasm, but in a huskier, and gravel-ridden tone. He howled with feigned delight, dripping with a mocking, but humorous sound. His 100 percent commitment to the bit, caused all of us to laugh uncontrollably. With his long sleeve dress shirt, short-shorts, and a red beret, George kind of looked like a little French child. Except for his salt and pepper goatee. George’s infectious exuberance for enjoying the moment became an instant memory snapshot. Thankfully my father, ever present family photographer, managed to capture George’s comical wailing.
A few unforgettable life lessons learned from George:
Be respectful, unless the situation warrants for equality or justice.
Be true to your word.
Live and love deliberately.
Listen to your spirit and help others
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