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George Willets Obituary

George Earl Willets fought a final battle with cancer that ended September 19, 2010. He passed away at age 71 in Redding, CA. George was born and raised in southern California. He relocated to the north state, living in Viola and settling permanently in Redding, after a lengthy recovery from intensive surgery for throat cancer. He became the owner/operator of a successful car pin striping business and a long-time volunteer for the American Cancer Society. Despite losing his vocal cords to throat cancer, George regained his ability to speak, using his new voice to educate teen audiences on the perils of smoking, encouraging them to make informed choices about risk behaviors, and encouraging other cancer survivors to live life to the fullest. George shared his tobacco-free message with youth from California to West Virginia. He was an active advocate against smoking, serving as chairman and spokesperson for the Shasta County Tobacco Education Coalition. In addition, he was dedicated to his sobriety and a prominent figure in the recovery community, well known for his generous embrace and encouragement of newcomers. George was proud to realize the continuation of his message through the June 2010 publication of his book That's Easy For You To Say - Memoirs of a Smoker, Laryngectomee, and Public Speaker.
George leaves behind a vast family of friends who have been touched by his kindness and loving spirit. A celebration of life will be open to all on October 9th at 2 p.m. at the Center for Spiritual Living (1905 Hartnell Avenue, Redding).

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Redding Record Searchlight on Sep. 23, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for George Willets

Not sure what to say?





Ed Brewer

September 18, 2022

Thank you George for being a wonderful human being.

Edmund (Ed) Brewer

October 9, 2010

George was a great person. When I went to the Center for Spiritual Living he introduced himself to me and made me welcome. He was like that, open, willing to listen and be there as a friend. I'll miss him.

Andrée Nippe

October 8, 2010

So long, my friend, for now. Knowing you and sharing many singles events together, has been not only a pleasure but also an honor. Rest in peace now, you have served the Lord here on earth until He needed you more. You will be missed.
Your friend,

Liz Riekena

October 8, 2010

Just learned of this death...a wonderful loving man who always had a bright smile and an encouraging word...Had not seen him around for awhile...now I know why...will miss his warm welcoming hugs...God Bless

Kathy Peterson

October 5, 2010

George came into my life for a reason, a season and will always have a place in my heart for a lifetime. I have never met anyone with a better attitude towards life despite all the battles he fought. He was a very special, generous man and I will always love him for his "style" and that smile.

October 5, 2010

Well Buddy,
I sit here today reading all the posts that your friends have left on this page and I am once again reminded of your positive imprint on this planet. We have shared many journeys together, including your final lap here. As your spirit plays, save a spot for all who love you. I know your bringing love and light to the heavens, and keep giving those "G-Man" hugs! Later Brother. Phil

Bob Logan

October 3, 2010

October, 1992, George walked into the office of the American Cancer Society. I was the Executive Director only my first month with ACS. He and I have been friends and brothers since. When I took the reins of the Tobacco Education Coalition in Shasta County, I knew I had a place for him. We had a volunteer piece back then that had a laryngectomy whispering, "When I whisper, people listen". I knew that George was that person for the school children of Shasta County. George was there for me for the past 18 years more than a friend. My wife and I owe you a great debt George!

Linda D.

September 28, 2010

Thank you George, for making me feel I was in the right place at the right time. My prayers are with your family and friends.

Nancy Burt McCauley

September 27, 2010

I have known George since the third grade, and what I remember most from that time was that he was a nice boy(with bright red hair). Through all the years I knew him, in Chapman Elementary, Wilshire Junior High, where we were in the orchestra together, and FUHS I always knew him to be kind to all. He gave of his time unselfishly as long as he could. I think he was a very special person, and he will be missed.

Tommy Joslin

September 25, 2010

U will be missed always a smile and a kind word may ur memories may not soon be forgotten

Bob & Phyllis McDuell

September 25, 2010

Our deepest condolences to George's family. Phyllis remembers him well as her tennis partner at FUHS.

Darren Gifford

September 25, 2010

Georges smile and character in the face of adversity touched the hearts of many.I for one will never forget you George,you were a true leader by example this world needs more men like you.Thank you for showing us how to act.I love you and will see you in heaven. :~)

Lois Watkins-Matesa

September 25, 2010

I remember George well as a classmate at Fullerton High. Since my name was Watkins and his Willets, we were often seated near or next to each other. He was a fun loving and warm friend. I just read the message he wrote in my yearbook..."I probably won't see you this sumer, but will be looking forward to when I do again." Save a place for me George.

Tom Starr

September 24, 2010

George and I were trumpet playing buddies at Wilshire Jr. High, playing in the band for Mrs. Deming. We were also asked to leave the Fox theatre on quite a few Friday nights. We connected recently on Facebook, and I was so blessed to hear of his work with people in recovery. He has many, many loving friends. God Bless you, George.

Martin Jones

September 24, 2010

You've touched the lives of so many people. And now many of those people have become a huge part of my life. Thank you so much.

Faye Klingenberg

September 24, 2010

Thank you George for leaving behind your book and testament to teens. Your 1957 Classmate, now a Life Choices Coach who works with teens at Bear Creek Church.

Susy Payne-Renaud

September 24, 2010

Beautiful memories of a beautiful person, always welcoming, always caring... always loving... and always in service. Thank you George for your beautiful heart!

You, my precious friend... have touched so many and because of this the memory of your "always smiling face" is engrained upon our hearts!

With much love to you George!

Charlie & Judy Eberhardt

September 24, 2010

No one ever told us about the evils of smoking, George! The world was blessed by the help you gave to others trying to kick the habits we picked up in high school.

Sandra Parish

September 24, 2010

Well friend you fought the good fight and now it is time to rest. Thank you for being such a beautiful example of a truly loving person!

Lauri Power

September 24, 2010

George has been an inspiration to me in life and recovery. He loved unconditionally... and though he had a strong message against smoking he never judged. I will miss the smiles and hugs I got from him every time I was in a room with him. George will be missed....and remembered always.

Larry Watters

September 24, 2010

Miss you, big guy; such an inspiration to all! What's that sound? Why, it is George speaking.

Connie Van Horn

September 24, 2010

I have added George's obituary to the Fullerton Union High School alumni blog so that more of his classmates may see it.
Connie Stafford Van Horn, FUHS '53

September 23, 2010

George was such a shining star in our life..... Thank you for all your kindness and always having a smile.. You've blessed so many with your encouragment and love.... You will forever live on in our hearts.... Lon and Mellisa Burton

Nikki & Gary Raeder

September 23, 2010

Ahhh George--you will be sorely missed.
We're thankful you were a part of our lives.

Billy Pilgrim

September 23, 2010

George was so totally cool. And wise, too. He helped with with many of life's mysteries. So blessed to have known him. Such a selfless man. Now soaring with the angels. Love, peace, and mercy.

ron and carol p

September 23, 2010

George was such an upbeat, welcoming individual with a strong commitment to give to his community. We will miss him, but take comfort from our memories of time spent with him.

Julie Myers

September 23, 2010

George will be greatly missed in this community, he was a dear friend to all he met and will never be forgotten. i know that i will miss his stories, smile and need to help others. his fight was a good one and now he his in a better place.

Debbie Peel

September 23, 2010

The treasure of George's friendship was shared broadly and I was honored to be part of his journey. What a joy it will be to remember his infectious smiles, loving hugs, and go-get-em attitude.

Debbie Peel

September 23, 2010

The treasure of George's friendship was shared broadly and it was my honor to be part of his journey. What a joy it will be to remember his encouraging smiles, loving hugs, and infectious "go get 'em" attitude!

Tony & Lisa

September 23, 2010

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

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