George R. Brezina, Jr., devoted husband, beloved father and brother and adventurer of life. George R. Brezina, Jr., 63, of St. Augustine, passed away July 1, 2016, while being transported to UF Health Jacksonville after being critically injured in a jet-skiing accident on the Matanzas River.
His wife and daughter were by his side.
George was born in Newark, Ohio, on Jan. 18, 1953, to the sweetest woman, Odette Brezina, and her husband, George. He raised his family in the Tampa Bay area for 22 years until recently retiring in St. Augustine.
George is survived by his loving wife and soul mate, Gretchen Brezina; daughter Veronica Brezina; son Jon-Carlos Brezina; and brother Carlos Brezina. He moved to Florida where he earned his bachelor of science, with honors, in 1975, at the University of West Florida. He also obtained a bachelor of arts in 1977 and a master's in business administration in the same year at UWF. He then went on to become a proud Florida Gator at the University of Florida where he earned his juris doctorate in 1989 and became a member of the Florida Bar. He valued education as one of the most rewarding opportunities a person can have and achieve.
George fell in love with Gretchen Gauggel on June 1, 1989, and got married on June 1, 1991. They just celebrated their 25th anniversary together. George was an extremely successful businessman with the mindset to accomplish whatever he pursued. He opened his law practice in 1991, serving the public as a personal injury law attorney in the Tampa Bay area. George's business grew with a dedicated staff over the past 25 years.
George devoted his life to helping others, from clients to employees to family members, and even strangers. His humor and generosity kept a smile on people's faces. Every day was a new adventure for him, another day to explore and mark off another dream on his bucket list. He lived life how it should be lived: surrounded by family, love and having curiosity of the world and all its thrills. He gave his family memories and moments that will never be forgotten. Per George's wishes, private services are to be held at a later date by his family.
Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home, 940 Cesery Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32211, is assisting with arrangements.

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Published by St. Augustine Record on Jul. 10, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for George Brezina

12 Entries

Randy Freedman

July 1, 2020

I worked with George for a few years as rookies at Merrill Lynch, prior to him going to law school and becoming a successful attorney. George always had a big smile and a great attitude and I will remember the good times together.

Regina Goucher

February 26, 2017

I am beyond words just learning of this. George gave me my first job as a paralegal fresh out of college. It was to be temporary and as a learning experience... something I could put on my resume. His office at the time was in Town & Country. He was such a kind man... willing to help give me a start. He was definitely one of those good guys. God bless him.
My sincerest condolences to his family & friends.

edward kalinowski

July 25, 2016

geoege can never be replaced, he was a man who kept things working no matter how bad the situation was. I will miss you dearly George, and may god rest you soul

Marilyn Brislin

July 20, 2016

We were so sorry to hear of George's Passing. He was a wonderful friend and neighbor. Always a smile on his face and quick to offer a helping hand. He was so much fun at our parties and my boys always looked up to him. One of my fond memories was when George and family came to Brent's High School Graduation Party in his new Lotus. All the high school boys were out in the lot looking at the car and trying to getting George to give them rides. He was a wonderful family man; we always admired how much pride he took in all your accomplishments. I know he will watch over you still with pride in all you do. You are in our prayers. The Brislin Family - Marilyn, Tom, Brent and Bryan

Jan Eisentrout

July 14, 2016

I knew George from water color class and just wanted to reach out to you all and express my sorrow at his passing. He was such an upbeat and nice man. Please know that your are in my prayers.

Captain Dan Raynor

July 12, 2016

I'm very sorry for the loss to your family. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Marc Petruccelli

July 11, 2016

My friend, may you rest in peace knowing that your strength lives on in your children, your love lives on in your wife and your honor will live on in all of us.

David Folkenflik

July 11, 2016

I am very sad to hear of George's passing. He gave me my first job as a lawyer, fresh out of law school. He was an excellent and caring lawyer and person, and I learned a great deal from him about the law, and the practice of law. I have great memories of working with George in those first two offices on Memorial Highway. I know he will be greatly missed by those who had the pleasure of knowing him. My heartfelt condolences to George's wife and family.

July 11, 2016

My sincere condolences to the family during this time of sorrow. May you receive comfort and peace from above. Hosea 13:14

Joyce Conser

July 11, 2016

I didn't know George very well, but met him in my watercolor class. He was a very talented painter and always a gentleman with a big smile for everyone. We will miss him. Condolences to the family.

Randy Freedman

July 10, 2016

My sincerest condelences to the Brezina family. George and I started out together at Merrill Lynch in 1981 and he always had a smile and an easy laugh. I will always remember his smile and sense of humor. May his memories sustain you in your time of grief and for all time.

Stephen Chambers

July 10, 2016

My heart is broken--he always made me smile. He was kind and generous. We broke bread together--fished together--and even flipped an airboat together out in the wilds of Homosassa....which made us stranded together. Despite treading water and losing a set of $500 Lotus keys--he still had that wonderful smile. Gonna miss you buddy.

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