Handsome George

George Andrew Tesch, 79, a lifelong resident of Oak Harbor, passed away peacefully with his family by his side, on Tuesday, Sept 30th, 2008, following a short and sudden illness.George was born in Oak Harbor on Jan 29th, 1929 to Max Albert and May (Wagner) Tesch. He attended school in Oak Harbor and enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve his country during the Korean Conflict. After a Honorable Discharge, he returned to the island he loved to marry the woman he loved, Jacoba Mensigna on Sept 18, 1953. Shortly thereafter, George and Cobie started their family with twin boys, Dwight and Barry. He loved being a devoted husband and father and will be remembered that way. George worked for many years as the produce manager at the Commissary on NAS Whidbey, until his retirement in 1985. George loved being a grandfather and many fond memories were made by him and his beloved grandchildren, and later great-grandchildren. In 1992 he decided to busy himself by working part-time as a shuttle driver for Whidbey General Hospital. All who came in contact with "Sweet George" (as he was affectionately known) remember him for his quick smile, big hugs and kind words. He recently retired in 2007 from WGH to stay home and spend time with his beloved wife of 55 years, Cobie, and tend to his garden. George loved to travel, often taking his RV all around the country and many a weekend was spent with his family at Lake Conner Park, going on walks, playing horse shoes and relaxing around the fire. George will be remembered by all as a loving, big-hearted man, who was quick with a laugh and had a way of making you feel like you were his best friend. He will be greatly missed.

George is survived by his loving wife Cobie; two sons, Dwight Tesch and his wife June of Burlington; Barry Tesch and his wife Debbie of Oak Harbor; three grandchildren, Brad Tesch and his wife Nikki, Marc Tesch and his wife Anna, both of Oak Harbor, and Jennifer (Tesch) McGill and her husband Brian of Snohomish, WA; four great-grandchildren Grace Elaine, Delaney Anne, Ezra Marc and Audrey Claire, and many nieces and nephews whom he loved. George was preceeded in death by his brothers Fred Tesch (2006), Al (Max) Tesch (2007) and his sister Maxine Pease (2007).In keeping with George's wishes, no services will be held. Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Association. Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest register by going to www.whidbeymemorial.com . Arrangements have been made with the assistance of Whidbey Funeral & Cremation Service, Inc. located in Oak Harbor.