John W. George

John W. George, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and educator, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, at his home in Glenville, NY, after a courageous six-year battle with ALS. Born on November 23, 1948, in Warsaw, NY, to the late Norman and Rosemary (Eley) George, John's life was marked by his loving nature, kindness, and intelligence.
John's journey through education began at Notre Dame High School in Batavia and continued as he graduated from Attica High School in 1966. His passion for learning led him to further his education at Paul Smith's College, SUNY Geneseo, and he later earned his Master's degree from the College of St. Rose. John dedicated 36 years of his life to educating young minds as a beloved 5th-grade teacher at Glendaal Elementary School in the Scotia Glenville School District, retiring in 2008. His commitment to education and the impact he had on his students will be remembered for generations to come.
In addition to his teaching career, John worked for Nabisco for 34 years, driving trucks and managing warehouse operations during the summers. His strong work ethic and dedication were evident in every task he undertook.
On August 19, 1972, John married the love of his life, Paulette (Narkiewicz) George. Together, sharing 53 years of marriage, they built a beautiful family, including their children Erica Hitzhusen (Greg) and Jonathan George (Erika), and were blessed with five grandchildren: Eli and Haden Hitzhusen, Luca George, Asher George, and Ava Linn (Aiden). John's role as a grandfather was one of his greatest joys, and he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren.
John's siblings, James "Jim" George (Shirley), Larry George (Jean), and Janet Hardie (Robert), along with several nieces and nephews, will fondly remember his warm presence and the wisdom he shared.
John was an active member of the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Glenville. His faith was a guiding light throughout his life and provided him with strength and comfort during his final days. He also was a former member of the Rotterdam Elks.
John's zest for life was evident in his many interests. He was an avid downhill skier, frequently visiting Jiminy Peak in Hancock, MA. His love for the great outdoors led him to travel extensively to National Parks and enjoy European riverboat cruises and four inclusive trips to Mexico. An enthusiastic hiker, John also found solace in planting perennial flowers and Christmas trees on his cherished Christmas tree farm. He took great pride in caring for his property and enjoyed jet skiing on The Great Sacandaga Lake.
John's legacy is one of love, kindness, and intelligence. He touched the lives of many through his teaching, his community involvement, and his unwavering support for his family and friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his teachings will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to learn from him.
Calling hours for John will be held on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 2 pm to 6 pm at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road, Glenville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 10 am at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, 400 Saratoga Road, Glenville. Interment will follow at Sts. Cyril and Method Cemetery, Rotterdam.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his devoted caregivers, Deena and Brian, the compassionate team at Community Hospice, especially Kara, Laura, and Lexi, and everyone at the ALS Center, including Susie, Trish, Karen, Kathy and Mary for the exceptional care and kindness shown to John. John's family would also like to thank Jeff (their resident baker) and Kathy Reynolds for their friendship and the many wine Wednesdays at the Turf Tavern. The monthly visits from colleagues Darrell Doak and Bill Hallenbeck, his long time Nabisco buddy for over 30 years, Keith Kodra, Woody Clark for helping maintain the property and Donnie Tessitore Jr for being a great neighbor and bringing communion every Sunday.
Memorial donations in John's name may be made to the St. Peter's ALS Regional Center, 19 Warehouse Row, Albany, NY 12205 or the Community Hospice, 310 S. Manning Blvd. Albany, NY 12208. Online condolences www.glenvillefuneralhome.com