Obituary of George Jacob

It is with heavy hearts that we, the family of George Jacob, announce his sudden passing on October 18^th, 2020, at the age of 76, following a massive stroke. 

George was born in 1944, in Pathanapuram, Kerala, India to his parents, Easow and Rachel George (their last name was George, his first name is George, and he told us to just accept that it was a family tradition). As he grew up, George came to be known by many additional names: Chackochen to his family and friends; Achacha to his wife, Kunjandamma (Molly); Daddy and Dad to his children, Gail and Benoy -- and their spouses Scott and Angela; eventually, with the arrival of his grandchildren Jacob, Olivia, Nicholas, Amelia and Lilah, he was simply known as Appa.  

George was one of 9 siblings, and is survived by his sisters Ammini Mathai and Saramma George, and his brothers George Joseph and George Varghese. He is predeceased by brothers George Easow, George Matthew and George John, as well as his sister Thankamma George.  

George was a man known for his smile -- bright, beaming and warm -- his kindness and his generousity. He never hesitated to give of his time, his energy, his resources. Tithing to the church, giving to charity and helping complete strangers in need were endeavours in which he regularly engaged; his belief was that if he had the means to help, he had a responsibility to do so. His helping was always done without concern for himself and no need for recognition. His spirit was the epitome of altruism. 

He was a sports-enthusiast and active man, still playing badminton weekly; when Covid turned the world on its head, he had to let go of badminton, but diligently continued to do what he could to stay active: gardening, yard work, daily walks -- whatever it took. 

George was deeply devoted to his wife, Kunjandamma, of 51 years. Particularly as they grew older together, and her physical strength declined,  his devotion was evident in the daily acts of caring: making her meals, ensuring her favourite foods were always available, taking her for daily coffee breaks to Tim Horton’s or McDonald’s, whatever she was craving that day, all without complaint.

When it comes right down to it, at his core, George -- Appa --was a deeply devout man with a very simple faith. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you; use your God-given skills and talents relentlessly; focus on the positive; and above all else, stay humble. 

Visitations and a Celebration of Life will be held for Appa on Thursday, October 29^th, 2020 at Denning’s Funeral Home in Stathroy, ON.  To attend visitation, please click on the following link https://signup.com/go/SrvBFTo and to attend the Celebration of Life, kindly click on this link https://signup.com/go/rzjrovg

Given that George was one who appreciated comfort, we invite you to dress comfortably. For those unable to attend or uncomfortable attending in-person, the service will be live-streamed. 

In memory of George, donations made to Strathroy United Church, Heart and Stroke Foundation, or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.  Share a memory at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com (519 245-1023)