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On Friday, Aug. 27, 2021, after a long and valiant fight with lung cancer, George Joseph Damare Jr. returned home with God at the age of 73.

His incredible life of service to his country and family will remain an inspiration to all who knew him. As a veteran of the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, George understood what it meant to put his life on the line for the country he loved. He also experienced the animosity of others who didn’t always understand a soldier’s sense of duty. Despite these experiences, he proudly continued to serve his country for many additional years in the Air Force Reserves and as a civilian with the Army Corps of Engineers. He dedicated his life to serving his country both on and off the battlefield.

Throughout George’s service, there was one constant — love. Love of country and love of family. His family was of the utmost importance to him, especially his grandchildren. He saw them as the future — his legacy. It was his hope that they would continue on with the important lessons of life that he tried to share through his many actions, stories, and humor. Although these lessons were numerous some of the most consistent themes were:

Love — love is instrumental to one’s life. Love with all of your heart and all of your might … even when it isn’t easy.

Faith — even in the darkest moments, remember that God has an ultimate plan. We can choose to fight it, or we can choose to accept that the world is bigger than us. We all have our part to play in God’s ultimate plan.

Integrity — mean what you say and say what you mean. Actions are often far greater than words and actions will be how the world remembers you.

Service — always give back whenever you are able. Whether it is service to your country, church, community, or chosen profession always give back — always serve others to the best of your ability.

Humor — laughter truly is the best medicine. Smiling through pain, or being able to make others smile and laugh truly warms the soul.

LSU — is there really anything to say regarding this? GEAUX TIGERS!

Although he is gone from this earth, George J. Damare Jr., will never be forgotten. He has just moved on to this next great adventure.

George is survived by his three children, Chris Damare (Marianne Damare), Sherri Damare Kocher (Edward Kocher) and Wendy Damare Miller, and by three siblings, Andre Damare (Cheri Damere), Linda Christofi and Darlene Damare Chaney (Mike Chaney). Additionally and most importantly to George, are his surviving grandchildren, Arielle Smith, Abigail Doborwolski, Anna Damare, Victoria Gillette, Colby Gillette, Dale Kocher, Cassidy Kathmann, Nathaniel Miller, Christian Miller and Tristan Miller.

George was preceded in death by his wife, Joann Dell Damare; his parents, George J. Damare Sr. and Evelyn Rita Maillho; and his grandchild, Caleb Gillette.

A visitation will be held Saturday, Sept. 11, from 11 a.m. until time for the services at 1 p.m. at Poole-Ritchie Funeral Home Chapel, with interment to follow at Garden of Peace. Military graveside rites will be performed by American Legion Magic City Post #24.

To view and sign the guestbook, visit online at www.pooleritchiefuneralhome.com.