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George Yaniger Obituary

Yaniger, George completed his journey on earth on August 6, 2014. "Coach" was best known for his passion for football, being a proud father and brother, and emphasizing the importance of family. Motivated and self-disciplined, he always said "There is no substitute for hard work". The son of the late George R. Yaniger and Gertrude L. Gesting, he was raised in the 6th ward of Allentown and graduated from Allentown High School in 1959. George majored in Biology at Simpson College in Iowa where he was also nominated All American Defensive Back in 1963. That same year, he won the AAU Rocky Mountain Regional Golden Gloves Heavyweight Boxing title. In 1969, he received his Masters in Education Administration from Iowa State University. George earned his PA Secondary Principal's Certificate from Lehigh University in 1984. His thirty five years of teaching experience included Dieruff, Slatington, North Allegheny, Wyoming Valley West and Reading high schools. He retired from Nazareth high school in 2001. Major accomplishments during George's career included coaching under head coach Johnny Majors at the University of Pittsburgh, along with legendary NFL coaches Jimmy Johnson and Dave Wannstedt. During the 1973-1976 seasons, the Pittsburgh Panthers had three consecutive college bowl game appearances - the Fiesta Bowl, Sun Bowl and Sugar Bowl. In the 1976 season, the team was ranked #1 and won the National Championship title, led by Heisman Trophy winner and NFL Hall of Fame running back Tony Dorsett. George's love for Allentown brought him back home to his roots, to coach in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas including Wyoming Valley West, Reading, Northampton, Shenandoah and Jim Thorpe high schools. He was especially proud to have coached and guided Mark Duda in high school, who later went on to play football at the University of Maryland and in the NFL for the St. Louis Cardinals. Survivors: wife Carol Micek, brother John, brother Christopher and wife Marilyn, son George M. and fiancée Shannon Beitler, daughter Mary and husband DJ, stepsons Mark and Robert Micek, grandchildren Sophia, Nicole, Ava, Jamie, Jack, Luke, Stevie and Megan. Also preceded in death by his brother Douglas. Services: A viewing will be held on Wednesday August 13 from 7-8:30PM and on Thursday August 14 from 9:45-10:30AM at Weber Funeral Home, 502 Ridge Ave. in Allentown to be followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11Am at St John the Baptist Slovak Catholic church www.weberfuneralhomes.com Contributions: may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Avenue, 7th floor, New York, NY 10001. By phone 1-866-232-8484 (to pay by cc)

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Published by Morning Call on Aug. 10, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
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Jerry Brumit

August 4, 2025

May he continue to Rest in Peace. I have many memories of George. Jerry

Al Paone

August 5, 2024

He was my best friend in college . Great guy .I think of him often and miss him
Al Paone

Jerry Brumit

August 4, 2024

I will always Rember George and can't believe he left us at such a young age. He brings back many memories. May he continue to rest in Peace. God Bless. Jerry

Jerry Brumit

August 5, 2021

What a tremendous athlete and friend. There will never be another George! Wishing the family continued sympathy and prayers to fill the gap of losing such a special person. Blessing.

Robert Baier

August 4, 2020

George, he was a great friend and teammate!

Jerry Brumit

August 4, 2020

I had the pleasure of knowing George and playing football with him in college for 4 years. He was one of the most passionate and toughest football players that I ever played with or against. His name and person brings back so many memories. He was definitely one of a kind and only wished there were more "George Yanigers" in the world today. Always wishing for continued memories of you George. Blessings, Jerry

September 8, 2019

I am so sorry to discover George's passing while attempting to find a way to contact him today. He has been on my mind for some time. I met George when I was transferred by US Steel from Dallas to Pittsburgh in 1974, and we moved into a duplex next door to George and Veronica along with Georgie and Mary. Veronica and George used to baby sit our then infant for us. George got me to put on the gloves 'one time' and gave me a boxing lesson. He was careful and I survived. One day George invited me to go to Pitt and see the facilities where I he introduced me to Johnny Majors. Coach Yaniger' had Coach Majors write a recruitment letter for my then infant son to come play at U of P when he grew up. My son has the letter framed and in his office still today.
George was a great guy and I will never forget him.
Ron Lansing-Dallas

chris

June 19, 2015

I was a student of his at Nazareth high school in and was in his boxing club I always talk about him he was special to me and believed in how he taught us kids I'm very sorry he is gone and I'm sorry I just found out he was a great man best of wishes thank you for being my teacher. Chris Berger will always remember you

John Piffer

October 6, 2014

we were fortunate to have George and Al and Bob live at my parents home while they played football at Simpson College and I have many great memories of those days. I am sure my Mom and Dad were glad to see George again on August 6th.

Robert Baier

September 30, 2014

George, was George...he had a way of getting your attention real fast. I was fortunate to know him three of his four years of college football. Lots of memories.
Bob Baier

Al Paone

September 28, 2014

George was my college roomate and friend and I will miss him but will keep many great memories ,

September 28, 2014

To the George's family. My father, Ken Heizer was George's football coach at Simpson College. He was a part of our football family and I remember him with affection. He was a very loyal person, who was to be admired. I am sorry for your loss. Nanci Heizer Kalamaya

September 23, 2014

For the best teacher I ever had so sorry of his passing. Prayers to his family

Larry Kunstler

September 2, 2014

I had the honor to know George as a fraternity brother and friend when we both attended Simpson College. We really got to know each other on our 18 hour road trips from Iowa to Pennsylvania and my hometown in New York. He will be greatly missed. My prayers and sympathy go out to his family.
Larry Kunstler Simpson '66

August 24, 2014

my condolences to Georges family, i had the pleasure of him coaching football at Jim thorpe are high school, as a school director, i admired his total efforts for what he did for our football program, I'm sure george was just as outstanding in the class room as well, and a great family man besides, he will be missed, what a sad day.

Scott Borlodan

August 16, 2014

To Mr. Yaniger's family and friends,
Sorry for your loss. He was my Vice Principle at Nazareth Jr. High and my Biology Teacher in High School. Some of my favorite moment's from School involve him being there. He will be sadly missed.

Daneen Roanoke Simoneau

August 16, 2014

Yaniger family,
May you be comforted in knowing you will be reunited in Heaven. Mr. Yaniger was a great man and I was blessed to have him as a teacher at Nazareth. I will never forget my father (John Roanoke)dropping me off for more driving lessons. It worked because I still have the "safe driver" award from 1987! You are in our prayers.

RoseMarie Mazza-Bauer

August 14, 2014

Chris, Marilyn & Yaniger Family. My condolences to all of you on the loss of your beloved brother/family member. May his adventure in the afterlife bring peace, love and joy to him and all others who knew and loved him.

August 14, 2014

To Coach Yaniger's Family: My heart is broken to hear of his death. He was a valuable assistant coach on our National Championship team at Pitt in 1976. He is well loved by his Pitt family. The Coach and all of his family will be in our thoughts and prayers during this time. Carson G. Long

August 14, 2014

Mr. Yaniger was a character, and one of my favorite teachers in Nazareth HS! To the entire Yaniger family, a most sincere and loving wish for peace and blessings are being extended to you. He was truly a remarkable individual! I am glad I got to bump into him recently, and that he remembered me. :) Much Love, Connie Edinger

Mark Weaver

August 13, 2014

Coach was unique and passionate about football. I can see him at practice in Heaven yelling at Jesus, "Bust a gut! Bust a gut!"
A great man who will be missed.

Kay Kurtz Vogel '74

August 13, 2014

Yaniger family:

The Louis E Dieruff High School Alumni Association offers our heartfelt condolences on the passing of 'Coach' Yaniger.

May memories comfort you in your time of sorrow. We posted an announcement on the homepage of our local alumni website in addition to adding his obituary to our faculty section.

In sympathy and in friendship.

Dieruff Alumni Association
Executive Committee
www.dieruff-alumni.org

Karen (Beers) Christman

August 13, 2014

He was a wonderful neighbor, teacher, and person. My sympathies to the family. I will never forget him.

Kevin M. Gemberling

August 13, 2014

George. You were blessed to have such a strong father in your life. In the short time that I knew him he influenced me in a way I cannot repay. He helped define for me, at a young age, what a real man is. No-nonsense, straight-talking, willing to step forward when others step back and a tough as nails. Sadly, the world is quickly loosing men like your dad but I take solace in the fact that his character runs through your veins… and a little of mine too.

Stephanie (NAHS Class of '97)

August 13, 2014

Every time I get behind the wheel I think of Mr. Yaniger. He taught me (and I always hear him when I drive reminding me): "There is a false sense of security in parking lots," to "hit the deer, not the guardrail," and look "Left, Right, Left," which I do multiple times. Driving is one of those skills necessary for success, and I deeply, deeply appreciate Mr. Yaniger's skill as my driving "coach," as not every parent has this. (I haven't been in an accident yet!) Mr. Yaniger's family, your loved one is daily remembered and appreciated. Thank you for your sacrifices caring for him in his last days. I recently lost two people close to me; it can be SO difficult. My heart goes out to you. God bless you and hold you as you grieve. God grant you comfort and peace.

Marianne Sheckler

August 12, 2014

George, we are sorry about the passing of your father. He was one of my teachers at Slatington High School. What a guy! May he rest in peace. God be with you all.

August 12, 2014

I will remember George for expecting hard work and respect from his students. He was a wonderful teacher because he never compromised these principles!
Rest in peace, my friend.
Lenny Bast
Nazareth HS faculty ( retired)

Mike Malinoski

August 12, 2014

Sorry for your loss. I played for George at Shenandoah Valley. He was a great man.

Lon & Stephanie Styes

August 12, 2014

Gearge ...we were so sorry to learn of your father's passing. We hope you and your family can find peace in all your memories of him and the wonderful life he led.
Lon and Stephanie

August 11, 2014

Chris and Marilyn, I am so very sorry for your loss. Prayers, sympathy and Love to you and your family,

Leslie

August 11, 2014

Carol and family,
Sorry for your loss. He was a great person and an awesome coach who taught me alot about both family and football. Mad Dog "D" will live for ever.
Brian "pip" Rehrig
Jim Thorpe 1992

August 11, 2014

To Carol and the Yaniger family. I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Many years ago, George was my Biology teacher and he was the best. I will always think of him and smile. - Cheryl

August 11, 2014

I coached with George at Wyoming Valley West. He helped revive a program back to dominance. Just like he always stated, "There was no substitute for hard work." It was great to have the experience of coaching with George. Sorry for the family's loss. He will be missed.
Frank Tribendis
Wyoming Valley West

August 11, 2014

I taught with George for many years. He inspired many young minds with his unique style, humor and wit. He will be sorely missed but be assured his legacy will live forever

August 11, 2014

Sorry for your loss. God bless you coach. Russ Pierce

esther azar

August 11, 2014

to the entire yaniger family,
we are so very sorry for your loss. our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time.
love,
the azar family

Janet

August 11, 2014

Carol and Family:

We send to you our deepest sympathy during
this most difficult time. Cherish all the
special moments you had with George. May
you find peace and comfort in the days ahead.

Staff of Dr. Pragnesh Desai
Janet
Gina
Jean

Nick

August 11, 2014

My condolences to your family. Mr Yaniger was a great teacher and person. I will always have fond memories of us talking about football and life, all while learning how to drive. He will be missed.

August 11, 2014

So very saddened by the loss of such a beautiful soul. Mr. Yaniger was my playground instructor at Kift-Mullen park and those were the days of volleyball, basketball, baseball, Romper Day and summer fun! He also was my chemistry teacher at Dieruff High School, and gave chemistry an edge of excitement! My sincere thoughts of peace and healing to his family. Grace and Peace from the 6th ward...Rev. Diane Joseph...

Albert Barney

August 11, 2014

Great coach developed you both mentally and physically to play football. I learned a lot from coach G.Y.
class of 75 SHS

Pam Long-Henninger

August 11, 2014

Mr. Yaniger was a great teacher. He made Biology a lot of fun! Hugs & Prayers to your family.

Jackie Lienhard

August 11, 2014

Love and Prayers being sent from Aunt Marguerite (Gesting) Danner and cousin Jackie and family.

Dwayne McDavitt

August 11, 2014

Mr.Yaniger, you will be missed. Thank you for being a great teacher,coach,mentor,friend. You always had time to help. If there were only more teachers like you today. WVW class of 81. Thank you

Colleen Schmidt-Lichtenwalner

August 11, 2014

Mr. Yaniger was such a great man. He was my biology teacher at Nazareth High School and in '86 he was also my driver ed teacher as well. He taught me some great driving skills that I still use today. May he rest in peace!!!!

Tom Williams

August 11, 2014

Terrific coach and good man. Taught me the meaning of mental toughness and hard work at Wyoming Valley West. So sorry for your loss.

Scollo

August 11, 2014

Mr Yanigar was a favorite teacher of mine in biology not soley based on the subject matter, but his strong character and presence. He had a way of saying things that made us laugh and at times got us in line and he knew how to control a classroom. He was a real tough guy. The kind of attitude that is lacking in our younger generations. He made me want to take responsibility for my shortcomings and think more about how to work around them. He held a boxing club every week and we learned how to train and spar. It was a good time!

"Double jab, straight right, left hook!"

God rest his soul! Cya soon coach! Put in a good word for us!

LS

Kim O'Shall

August 10, 2014

Sorry for your loss- George and I taught together at Nazareth. He was a great guy and had a way with kids, including some classic lines- which could never be used by anyone else but him.

Dan Harter

August 10, 2014

Rest in peace, Coach. Great memories of him as my boxing coach back in the day will live on forever. My condolences to his family and close friends.

Christopher Drust

August 10, 2014

Sorry to hear of his passing.....my condolences to all of George's Family...

Sarah Richards

August 10, 2014

You will be missed Mr. Yaniger. He was a great teacher. I'm from the class of 1993.

Gene Strot

August 10, 2014

The Yaniger family,
So sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Yaniger. He was a great teacher and coach. He will be missed! My thoughts and prayers go out to the Yaniger family.

Ben Miller

August 10, 2014

Mr. Yaniger will always hold a special place in my memories. Aside from being a teacher with my dad at Nazareth High School, he was a family friend and I've known him since I was a boy. May God bless and provide strength to his family at this tough time.

Billy Weinhofer Jr.

August 10, 2014

George sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. Ill always remember how intense he was when we were in the gym. RIP an GOD BLESS you and your family.

Janis Snyder-Hoadley

August 10, 2014

You will always be remember Mr. Yaniger. You were an amazing teacher. Thanks for all you invested in us.

jessica w

August 10, 2014

You will be missed Mr.Yaniger. R.I.P. prayers to the family for their lost.

Greg Gig Geiger Jr.

August 10, 2014

George,sorry to hear of the passing of your father,may he rest in peace and may God bless your family as you grieve.

Glynnis Fowler

August 10, 2014

You were a great teacher and we will never forget you!!!

George & Kaki Reenock

August 10, 2014

We are so sorry for your loss...our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

August 10, 2014

Mr.Yaniger was a great man and teacher he will be greatly missed Lisa VanHorn

August 10, 2014

He was the best! So honored to have worked with him! He was and will always be missed!
Donna M. Sabatie

Jennifer Bender

August 10, 2014

I am saddened by the passing of a wonderful teacher. I had him sometimes fill in for my teachers when they were sick. He was a great guy, no-nonsense, and got down to business. You will be missed, Mr. Yaniger. My condolences to the entire family and friends. Remember all the good memories you've shared and the love in your heart that will never fade.

Ryan James

August 10, 2014

Great teacher and guy!

Rebecca Rodger

August 10, 2014

Mr Yaniger was my favorite teacher! He was a wonderful man both in school and out. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and all the students that he meant a great deal to! RIP!!

Derrick Martin

August 10, 2014

"Coach" you were an inspiration to every one of us who had the chance to be taught by you in the classroom or the gym. I will never forget our afternoons putting the gloves on and slugging it out in the field house at Nazareth. The phrase "jab jab cross upper cut" always brings a smile when I play back you screaming it repetitively. I also was honored to have you as a science teacher for several years and you made it fun in the classroom with your quips and analogies. You will forever be missed by so many you have touched. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Rest easy coach the bell has rung.
Derrick E Martin

Dean Ruch

August 10, 2014

George You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.

David Assad

August 10, 2014

John and the Yaniger Family

So sorry to hear of George's passing. Even though we haven't been in close contact the last few years, I never will forget the days of our youth.

I will always remember stopping on Front Street to meet with George on our way to Harrison Morton and later to AHS.

The good times we had at Riverfront and Jordan Parks, the Boys Club and working out together at Bart's house.

The many days we spent having fun as well as the nights when we would sit around and talk about what we were going to do with our lives. We would set goals, many of which I must say George accomplished.

He was a friend! May he Rest In Peace

JOHN ROANOKE

August 10, 2014

TO ALL THE YANIGER FAMILY,
GEORGE AND I TAUGHT AT NAZARETH SEVERAL YEARS AGO, WE BECAME GOOD FRIENDS AND I LIKED HIM VERY MUCH. MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES ON HIS PASSING.
JOHN ROANOKE

Chris Reenock

August 10, 2014

Can that Mad Dog team be beat? Hell no! Thank you for you taught me Coach.

Danny Farrell

August 10, 2014

Dear George and Family,
We are sorry to hear about your Dad's passing....may all the wonderful memories you have of Him comfort you at this time of sorry...Our thoughts and prayers are with you George and your whole family....may your Dad R.I.P. God Bless
Danny & Donna Farrell

Scott Gehringer

August 10, 2014

Dear George And Family. I Was Saddened To Hear Of Your Fathers Passing My Deepest Condolences And Sympathy Goes Out To You All.

George Charles Jr

August 10, 2014

I'm so sorry to see George's obituary this morning. I have nothing but great memories of the Yaniger's and the Turczyn's growing up. This is surely a loss. You have my prayers for a rapid healing and I'm sure there are many warm memories as well. God bless you all...

August 10, 2014

R.I.P. George, a great guy, somebody I always looked up to and never forgot. Roger Z.

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502 Ridge Ave., Allentown, PA 18102

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502 Ridge Ave., Allentown, PA 18102

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