George Joseph Palotas

George Joseph Palotas, 79, of Meadville, passed away Sunday, September 10, 2023, at Meadville Medical Center.

George was born in Erie, on February 6, 1944, a son of the late George M. and Eleanore (Kubasik) Palotas.

On October 16, 1971 George married Christine A. Lindquist; she survives.

He was an active member of St. Brigid Church, Meadville, where he taught religious education.

A graduate of Cathedral Preparatory School, Erie, George attended St. Mark's Seminary in Erie as well as St. Mary's Seminary in Baltimore, MD. A U.S. veteran, George served his country honorably in the Marine Corps and Reserves from April 26, 1965 until February 8, 1971. He served a year in Vietnam, attained the rank of Sergeant and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal. Upon his return from the service, George finished his education at Gannon University, while working full time, earning a degree in History. He began his working career at the Meadville Assistance Office where he was a lead trainer for Northwest PA. He went on to find his calling with the State Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services. He was appointed the Pennsylvania State Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services Director just one day before learning of his pancreatic cancer diagnosis, and reluctantly resigned his position. This diagnosis inspired him to write and publish his first book, "Days of Daisies and Barbed Wire: a cancer crusade", which became an inspiration to others. He continued to inspire others by volunteering at the Barco Oncology Institute for seven years, where he in turn, was inspired. George had been a member of Meadville Jaycees. He enjoyed gardening and was just featured in the Meadville Tribune for his flowers. He looked forward to decorating his entire home each Christmas as well as entertaining guests; he was known for making a mean Moscow Mule. George also enjoyed cooking, working crossword puzzles, following Notre Dame, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pittsburgh Pirates. He loved being a full time baby sitter to his three grandchildren who affectionately called him "BA"; he loved them deeply. George will be remembered as a generous, strong, faith filled person who was humble, selfless, gentle speaking, and devoted to his family. He will be sadly missed.

In addition to his wife, Christine, of 51 years, George is survived by a son Scott Palotas (Sharon) of Meadville; three grandchildren Abigail, Andrea, and Avery; cousins; and godchildren.

Family and friends are invited to call from 2-4 and 7-9 PM on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC. 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE, where a Scripture Service will be held at 8:45 PM.

A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 10 AM on Friday, September 15, 2023, at The Epiphany of the Lord Parish, St. Brigid Church, 383 Arch St., Meadville, with Fr. David Foradori officiating.

George will be laid to rest in St. Brigid Cemetery, with Full Military Honors by VFW Post #2006.

The family would like to extend a huge, heartfelt thank you for the kind and compassionate care given by the nurses and doctors at the Barco Center as well as Meadville Medical Center.

Memorial contributions may be made in George's memory to Yolanda G. Barco Oncology Institute, 16792 Conneaut Lake Road, Meadville, PA 16335 or National Pancreas Foundation, 3 Bethesda Metro Center, SUITE 700,BethesdA, MD 20814 or online at https://pancreasfoundation.org/ways-to-give/general-donation

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