George Maderos

1933 - 2017

GEORGE MADEROS George was born on November 3, 1933 in Chico, California to Anthony and Mary Warner Maderos. He passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 2, 2017 at the age of 83. Early life wasn't always easy for George, as his father died suddenly when George was eight and his mother struggled with health issues. As a result, George and his two brothers lived in a foster home in Paradise for three years after the death of their father. When George was about 12 or 13 years old, he had a chance encounter with Willie Simmons, the man who would change the course of his life. Willie got George involved in boxing, and a God given athletic talent was unleashed. The rest is history. George's many and seemingly endless athletic accomplishments have been well documented in recent media articles. While he was widely viewed as a sports legend, he is even better remembered and treasured for his true character and humble nature. In 1955 George married Cindy Keim, graduated from Chico State, played two years for the San Francisco 49ers and then came back to his home town to coach, referee, teach and raise his family. George and Cindy had two sons, Matt and Clint, and were together until their divorce in 1977. On December 6, 1980 George's life started a new chapter when he met Debbie Peloyan at a Christmas party. Their first date was the next day when he invited her to join him for a trip down to the 49er alumni weekend festivities and game. That 'sealed the deal' for Debbie and after a brief time of dating (13 years!) they were married on January 22, 1994. George and Debbie shared a love of sports and spent the last 23 years enjoying annual golf trips to Palm Springs, Canada and Maui. They also enjoyed giving back to the Chico community they both love, by supporting cancer charities and Chico State Athletics. George is predeceased by his parents, three older sisters and two brothers. He is survived by his wife Debbie, who lovingly helped support and guide him through multiple illnesses over the years. He is also survived by his son Matt and granddaughters Lana & Mattie, and son Clint. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on February 25, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Divine Savior Church, 566 E. Lassen Avenue, Chico, California. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The George & Debbie Maderos Men's Basketball Scholarship at CSU Chico, or the Enloe Foundation Cardiovascular Care Center Campaign in Chico, in care of Brusie Funeral Home. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.brusiefh.com