George B. Lynch

George B. Lynch was born on a snowy January day in Toledo, Ohio, but he spent his life bringing sunshine and laughter to everyone who knew him. A proud Irishman with a Hawaiian heart, George carried both heritages into his home and his life with ease - a handshake, a laugh, and always aloha.

After serving six years in the Navy during the Korean War (and playing plenty of basketball while he was at it), George earned his degree from Bowling Green State University. That's where he discovered his true calling: teaching.

During his early years in the classroom, summers meant adventure and hard work. George would pack up the family and head to Arizona, where he completed his Master's degree at Norther Arizona University. Those summer months were filled with studies, sunshine, and family memories that shaped the life he was building.

For 35 years, "Mr. Lynch" shaped minds at El Sausal Middle School in Salinas, California. Students still remember him fondly for his kindness, his thoughtfulness, and his famous birthday tradition: performing a backflip in front of his classroom, year after year. If you had him as a teacher, you loved him; if you didn't, you wished you had.

George didn't stop at the classroom. He coached boys' basketball, mentored new teachers, and was always the first to sign up when staff played against students. In fact, many of his former players just found out is name was George since they always referred to him as Coach. His impact stretched across generations, and his legacy in Salinas is as strong as the communities he helped build.

In 1960, fate stepped in at a dance, where George spotted Helen Tobosa. From the moment their eyes met, Helen's dance card was full - and it's been George's name on it ever since. They married on August 19, 1961, and together built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Their daughter Laura arrived on May 31, 1962, and their son Chad on May 28, 1965. George was a firm but fair dad, always ready with a "yes" for Laura and a listening ear for his kids. As a grandfather, his patience knew no bounds - just ask his grandson Hunter, who could talk Pokémon for hours with him.

When he wasn't in the classroom or with his family, George was likely on the court or the slopes. He played basketball in Navy leagues and beyond, loved tennis, skiing, and cheering for the New England Patriots (unless they were losing - then he'd quickly switch loyalties). The Boston Celtics never lost his support.

George also loved travel and music. His philosophy was simple: any destination was the right one as long as Helen was by his side. And whether it was Hawaiian melodies or Irish ballads, music filled their home and their hearts.

On September 10, 2025, George passed away surrounded by his beloved family. He leaves behind Helen, his wife of 64 years; his daughter Laura Lynch (Sharon Fredrickson); his son Chad Lynch (Ruthanne Lynch); his brother Ron Lynch (Dee Lynch); his grandchildren Hunter Lynch, Marcus Lynch (Madison Lynch), Anna Milioni (Josh Milioni), and Brandon Lynch; two great-grandchildren, Lyla Lynch and Ivy Milioni; and a loving circle of nieces, nephews, former students, and friends who will miss his gentle spirit and kind heart. He was proceeded in death by his brother Gordon Lynch (Judy Lynch).

George's life was one of joy, laughter, and aloha. His legacy lives on in the students he taught, the family he raised, and the countless lives he touched. As we say aloha 'oe, farewell to you, we celebrate a life well-lived and a love that never ends. A private celebration of life was held for close family and friends