Michael George

Michael George was born on March 6, 1953 in Burderop Park, England.



Michael grew up in the suburbs of Indianapolis, raised on traditional, wholesome Midwest values. He was the oldest of four children, and often helped his mother to watch after his siblings. He received a scholarship through the Evans Scholar Program, providing a full ride to college. He graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Industrial Management in 1975 from Purdue University, where he met and married the love of his life, Diana Smith.



He was determined to make a life for himself, and moved his family to Lancaster, Pennsylvania where he began working for Armstrong, a career that lasted over 30 years. Early on, he succeeded within the organization and rose from working at the ceiling plant, to the CEO of Worthington Armstrong. He was a determined negotiator, who was always out for the win-win. He had great business sense, and was always able to make the tough decisions with poise and grace. Michael brought integrity to his role, and was deeply concerned about improving the lives of his employees. He was proud of his career and the opportunities it provided for him to travel the world, even moving his family overseas to England for a few years. In 2005 Armstrong moved him to Dallas for a new role as CEO of their cabinet division.

Michael always prided himself most in his family. He had a daughter, Christine, of whom he adored. His wife and daughter were always at the center of every decision. Michael was devoted to raising his child in a warm and nurturing home, where she could learn and grow. Through his marriage of 36 years, he provided a wonderful example of true love and devotion. Diana was by his side on his journey through life as his confidant, lover and friend. He deeply loved, protected and provided for his family emotionally, physically and financially to ensure they were taken care of and safe.

Michael had a passion for golf; a sport he thoroughly enjoyed. Not only did he have his home on the course, but he was out playing every chance he could get. One of his fondest golf experiences wasn't even playing, but rather as a spectator at the Master's in Augusta, Georgia. He was always active and enjoyed running and water skiing. He was an avid sports fan, whether participating or rooting for his Chicago Cubs or Purdue Boilermakers.

While in Dallas he became involved in the CEO Netweavers organization. They are a group of business professionals who provide their knowledge and leadership to business owners within the community. He thoroughly enjoyed lending his expertise and volunteering his time to help others succeed. Through the CEO group, he built strong relationships and developed a huge network of supporters.

His illness brought him closer to God. His faith was extremely important to him and provided him much comfort. He joined Prestonwood Baptist church, where he made the decision to be re-baptized. His involvement in the church led him to a wonderful group of new friends who were more supportive and compassionate than he could ever imagine. They surrounded him with love and faith, which provided him strength to fight his disease, and prepare for his journey home to the Lord.

Michael will be remembered as a man of integrity, honor, and courage. He walked through life with grace and lived every day to its fullest. He had a warm smile, kind blue eyes and a big heart. He was fortunate enough to have touched the lives of so many and made a profound impact on this world. He will be missed and will always be remembered fondly, with deep love and respect. His spirit will remain in our hearts forever.

Michael is survived by his loving wife Diana, his daughter Christine, siblings Rick George and his wife Bethanne, Jim George and his wife Patanun and Sharon Arrington, step father Roger Moore, his brother-in-law Gordon Smith and his wife Phyllis, nieces and nephews Katy, Bootsarin, Ryan, Ricky, Elizabeth, Brian, Kevin and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Diane Moore and father Phil George.

The family would like to express our deepest appreciation for the love and dedication shown to them by Michael's many caregivers and therapists. They have been like family. Vee Royals was one of the first on the scene. While Diana worked, Vee brought sunshine into Michael's day . She and Michael were a common sight in the neighborhood as they took their daily "walks". Tina Fowler has been with the family for over 2 years. "We can't say enough about her love and dedication to our family. She didn't stop for a minute taking care of Diana as well as Michael. She has been such a blessing. Marie Hood-Holemen was the calm in the storm for the 911 call when Michael was feeling so poorly. She too, holds a special place in our hearts for her tender loving care. Andrea Sherrod came to our rescue in the final weeks providing vacation relief. She is bright and bubbly and dedicated herself to all of us. She was a joy. Michael's therapists also brightened his day. He would ask for Melody and Kahani by name. We also want to thank the Hospice caregivers who in his final days doted on him and loved him. Love and blessings to each."



A memorial service will be held to honor Michael's life on Friday July 29, 2011 at 1:30 PM at Prestonwood Baptist Church, 6801 West Park Blvd. Plano, TX. 75093



If desired contributions may be made in Michael's name to the ALS Association. Please visit: http://www.alsa.org/donate/





Additional information about Michael's journey can be found at CaringBridge.org



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