I first knew George as a coach. He was a legend in the world of girl’s AAA high school soccer. Under his guidance, Snohomish was always a feared opponent. George’s teams embodied his personality; hard-nosed, hard-working, relentless, and passionate.
My freshman year of college, I fell madly in love with George’s son, Matt. And for the next 6 years, I had the privilege of spending every holiday, birthday, vacation, and weekend with the 2 of them. It was hard not to adore George. He was incredibly unique; I loved his competitiveness, his sense of adventure, his quirky sense of humor, his youthful spirit, and his self-discipline.
George loved sports and the outdoors. At the time, he was in his 50’s; but he ran circles around Matt & I. Coaching, soccer, golf, skiing, card games - whatever he did, he took it to the limit. He never missed an opportunity to take us camping, fishing, water skiing, sledding, hiking. He was always up for an adventure.
George was a feisty straight shooter. He would sit in the stands during my college soccer games keeping our opponent and the referee in check. “You booger eating moron, pull your head out of your ass!” Awkward? Sometimes. Hilarious? Often. Honest? Always.
George was the epitome of charisma. Rough on the outside sugar sweet on the inside. Whatever and whomever he loved; he loved them completely. He was an inch wide and mile deep. To his loved ones, he gave them his absolute everything. Giving, almost to a fault.
George had a unique and beautiful relationship with Matt. Thick as thieves. Father & son, but also best friends. I will never forget the sound of those two -- gut laughing. George and Matt; they didn’t just smile with their mouth – their entire face smiled when laughed. It was entirely contagious.
George, you were like a second father to me. Your love, support, and friendship will forever live inside my heart. I am eternally grateful for our time together. I will be seeing you someday and when I do, it is game on. I want a cribbage tournament rematch and another one of your grilled burgers. ;)
RIP my sweet & sour. Thank you for the cherished memories.
Sheralyn