Prof. George E. Stannard

Professor George E. Stannard, 87, of Paxton, MA passed away peacefully with his loved ones at his side on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at Notre Dame Long Term Care Center. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Dr. Katherine "Kay" Stannard of Paxton, MA; his son, Russell George Stannard and his wife Jean of Barre, MA; his daughter, Rev. Barbara Jean Stannard of Paxton, MA; his son, Edward Albert Stannard and his wife Karen of La Vernia, TX; his two step grandsons, Justin and Andrew Schmidt. He was predeceased by his grandson, Kory Stewart Stannard.

George was born on July 1, 1921 in Fitchburg, MA, son of George S. and Selma (Drake) Stannard. He attended Fitchburg High School and graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 1943. After graduation George was employed at the Radiation Laboratory at The Massachusetts Institute of Technology. When World War II ended, George continued as a graduate student at M.I.T. and received a Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering. He joined the faculty at W.P.I. in 1946 and enjoyed his tenure as a Professor of Electrical Engineering until his retirement in 1986.

George's life was filled with many interests, hobbies, and activities. As a young man he played several musical instruments including the clarinet and saxophone and was a member of a dance band. One of the highlights of his early life was meeting his musical idol Glen Miller. George's scientific interests included Amateur Radio (License: KEID), astronomy, and investigations with the New England Antiquities Research Association. He enjoyed crossword puzzles, model railroads, and photography. Other hobbies included his collections of coins and decorated bird plates. George was keenly involved with environmental issues. He installed solar panels, a green house, and a variety of fruit trees and gardens at his residence. He supported many animal organizations and was especially fond of cats. Two of George's favorite places in the world to visit were the state of Vermont and the country of Switzerland.

George served for many years as a Board Member of Camp Putnam in New Braintree, MA. He was an enthusiastic fund raiser and created fun and innovative ways to raise monies for the camp. He was a life long Episcopalian and a member of St. Luke's Episcopal Church since 1950. He sang tenor in the church choir, served on the vestry and many church committees. George was married to Kay for 60 years, lived in his home in Paxton for 59 years, attended St. Luke's Episcopal Church for 58 years and worked at W.P.I for 40 years. He was a steady loving presence in the lives of his family, friends and colleagues and he will be deeply missed.

Calling hours will be Wednesday, November 19th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Caswell-King Funeral Home, 474 Grove St., Worcester. The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, November 20th at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 921 Pleasant Street., Worcester. Burial will be in Mooreland Cemetery in Paxton. The Family wishes to thank the staff of Notre Dame for their loving care of George since January 3, 2008.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Camp Putnam, 141 Rutherford Rd., New Braintree, MA. 01531