Major George F. LaMaine

George LaMaine Obituary

Major George F. LaMAINE July 24th, 1919 ~ Nov. 7th, 2008 We are so thankful for an outstanding and courageous man who survived many adventures life threw his wayfrom heroism in tense battles during WWII, to being captured and escaping with his men, to liberating the prisoners of the Mauthausen Nazi concentration camp. He received the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart as well as the admira tion of the troops he led. He came home to his "Finnish Beauty Queen" whom he had married in 1941, Irene Salo. Together they had 3 children, George LaMaine (Susie), Celeste Bouffiou (Joe), and Jeffrey LaMaine (Cherie). They in turn gave them 9 grandchildren and 10 great-grand children. He was George of the 3GI's "Those Happy Go Lucky Guy's" who started selling war surplus in a huge tent in Ballard on Crown Hill. His business earned an article in Life Magazine and is included in the Seattle Times publication "Washington the First 100 Years", by Don Duncan. The busi ness is now operated by his surviving son George. It is now 3GI Sports and is located in the Crown Hill Plaza. George loved the great outdoors and his fellow man. He always helped those less fortunate giving of his time and finances. He hung out with a group of unforgettable unique char acters. To all who survive him he leaves behind memories of kindness, generosity, friendship and a legacy of a life well lived. He enters into eternity to greet his Saviour Jesus Christ, his beloved son, Jeff, and all those who have gone before him. Services at Nile Temple in Mountlake Terrace Sunday, Nov. 30th at 2:00 p.m. Remembrances may be sent to: Shriners Hospital for Children, PO Box 2472, Spokane, WA 99210.

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Published by The Seattle Times from Nov. 23 to Nov. 26, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for George LaMaine

5 Entries

Brian and Sharon Roat

November 30, 2008

Our cousin George was so much a part of our family, even though we lived many miles apart. Always a kind, gentle man--which belied his really being a mover and a shaker. Memories of him and his friendship will always be with us. Rest in peace.

Carl Leon

November 26, 2008

I am (was) George's neighbor across the street. He was a great neighbor and a good friend. He is missed.

Richard Weinsoft

November 25, 2008

It is with great sadness that I learned of George's passing. George and Irene, Howard and Bessie and my dad and mom, Ben and Sal were such good friends. George was a gentle person who always had time for me. The world needs more George LaMaine's. Rest in peace George.

judy helstad

November 24, 2008

George Sr...my second Dad...will live in my heart forever....He taught us all well...I can only imagine the great reward and reunion in heaven! See you there. Thanks for the memories...Love you so very very much!!! Judy Helstad

Brett Stevenson

November 22, 2008

Everyone has a person in their life that represents the person they aspire to be. I had two – my late father, and this tall quiet man that lead his men across the hell of World War II and protected you and me and our American way of life.
Mr. LaMaine, (he will always be Mr. LaMaine to me), hired me to work in his store when I was 17 years old. He always allowed us to alter our schedule to be able to participate in sports and to attend college classes. Over the next six years, through high school and college, I learned to stack sweat socks, unpack merchandise and run a cash register. More importantly, I learned how to be an honest businessman, how to run a business, and how to work hard. In the process of selling shoes, I learned how to sell – a skill that would help me greatly in my later career. Mr. LaMaine taught me all these things and he showed me how to treat people in a fair and reasonable way. I was one of many, many young people that were given a start at his store. He and his sons, George Jr. and Jeff enjoyed their business and allowed us to enjoy it too.
I remember when my father was invited to join Mr. LaMaine and his army buddies on an annual reunion campout they called the “Sorry Safari.” The attendees were some of the highest-ranking, retired military from World War II. I think my Dad felt like a private among Generals. They always had a crazy time and the stories are legendary.
I am happy Mr. LaMaine got to live a long and happy life. For him to make it through the war in Europe and then live so long is a wonderful thing. I remember him telling me that when he was at war, he dreamed of dying in his bed as an old man. Wish granted. I feel extremely honored, and not worthy, of having had some of his time and attention as a young man. He was a great man and I will continue to think of him often. George F. LaMaine – a life well lived.
Brett Stevenson
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