It is a very sad day for all of us. George Cole has passed on and will be dearly missed. George passed away on November 13 at age 65, after a short bout with pneumonia.
George was the true Mayor of Mink Island (sorry Cruz). He was a friend to all, always ready to lend a hand or a tool. He would willingly share his river expertise, helping us navigate our way in and around the islands during all 4 seasons. He made us laugh with his stories of Mink Island and the river in the days before we became islanders. He was the first one we went to with a camp, boat, or river question. From the first time we met George, he and Karen made us feel comfortable and welcome. We were lucky to know him.
Karen, David, Geoff, Tara, Melissa, and Joshua - our hearts go out to you, our doors are always open to you, and we are looking forward to the time next summer when we can gather together to share stories and celebrate George's life in true Mink Island fashion.
God Bless you George.
2 comments:
I've often thought of role models as successful businessmen or athletes, exhibiting their success on TV, magazine or games/tournaments.
I've had a few role models in my 54 years. One by one, however, they, as many of us do, expose their true selves and ruin the image we so carefully cultivated. No one said it was easy...
When I first met George, his simple honest, calm demeanor was certainly endearing and helpful. I was just so happy to have a veteran Mink Islander/River Rat to go to for advice.
I didn't know him for very long or very well, really. His impact on me was subtle. His real character was revealed to me as I met his wonderful family, one by one. I was blessed to see him as a terrific husband. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY wears a pin that says "I Love George" unless he is an amazing guy.
I was blessed to see him as an amazing father. His mild mannered approach with Dave and Geoff was in stark contrast to my personal experience as a father, or a son, for that matter. When I overheard Dave say that he lost his best friend, I just cried.
I was blessed to see him as a brand new grandfather. Beaming with pride. Lucky kid - those are some wonderful genes you're getting there.
He was like the Uncle I never had.
All that said, George's impact on my life may be greater posthumously than in life. Role models may come and go. I'm going to forget about my former boss, the mega-millionaire; Tiger, the billionaire and even Walter Cronkite and Abe Lincoln. I choose George.
minkisland.blogspot.com; You saved my day again.
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