"Only today did I learn of George's passing. I was a colleague of his at GM Research, and I have many fond memories of him from those days. I can still bring up his voice, and especially the sound of his laugh. His obituary captured his essence perfectly - a kind and humble man. A man who was always giving to others. The world could use more people like George, and I am proud to have known him. -Kurt Godden"
In loving memory of
George Pelyak
September 18, 1926 - October 2, 2020
George Pelyak, age 94, passed away October 2, 2020 in Shelby Township, Michigan. George was born on September 18, 1926 in Glouster, Ohio to the late Helen (nee Lazar) and the late Michael Pelyak .
George selflessly fought for his country under the United States Navy. He received a bachelor's degree from Ohio State before attending the University of Michigan to receive his master's degree. After college he pursued teaching before starting his career at GM until his retirement.
George was a compassionate man who devoted his life to the service of others. He spent countless hours volunteering his time to church festivals and events, to the Capuchins, and to multiple organizations such as People Making a Difference and his clown group that traveled to nursing homes and hospitals, under his alias Giggles the Clown he brought smiles to many faces. He also volunteered his time at the St. Patrick Senior Center in Detroit, Michigan.
George was an active member of the Men of the Sacred Heart, Knights of Columbus 4th Degree, and Fraternal Order of Irishman "FOUI".
Whenever you needed George he was there. He never asked for anything for himself and was extremely humble. He will be missed deeply by all who knew him.
George was the loving brother of Michael, Elizabeth, Mary Walent, Anna, Helen Kreig, John, Andrew, Veronica Matlock, and Betty Krafcik. Dear cousin of Georgiann Kaptur. Also survived by his brother-in-law Ed Krafcik and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Visitation will be Tuesday, October 6, from 1-4 pm at Chas. Verheyden, Inc., 16300 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Park. Funeral Mass Wednesday, October 7, 10 am at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 22412 Overlake St, St Clair Shores. Military Honors saluting George for his brave and honorable service will be rendered immediately following Mass. A Private Burial will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Memorial Contributions to The Capuchins or Seasons Hospice are appreciated.
https://www.thecapuchins.org/donate
https://seasonsfoundation.org/donate/
Tributes
"George was one of my dad's closest friends; they met while working at GM in Cleveland then continued the friendship when both moved to the Detroit area. Their friendship lasted a lifetime and we kids grew up with him as our Uncle George, too. We loved it when he visited - I always loved his laugh! He became a part of our family. We all loved him very much and I am so sad to hear of this but gratified that he lived such a long life."
"George will never be forgotten,Sending my condolences to Georgiann , entire family and friends, you all are in my prayers ????"
"I'm saddened to hear about the passing of George you have my deepest sympathy Darlene Walker"
"Our father, Will Dickman and George, became best friends while at Ohio State. Their friendship lasted a life time. George was our Uncle George and very much loved my our entire family. We will miss him and are very thankful he was part of our lives. "
"George was a great friend to my Dad Pat Keating and our family. He would visit mostly on Sunday after mass. He would sit for hours teaching and tutoring some of us in math. To this day I can calculate in my head because of how he taught me. I have thought of him many times over the years because of this gift he gave me. My condolences to his family."
"On behalf of the Capuchin brothers, I offer my deepest sympathies on the passing of George. George truly loved and supported us throughout his life. We were so very blessed to have such a wonderful supporter like him in our lives. Please be assured of the brother's prayers for the entire Pelyak family during this great time of grief. May perpetual light shine upon George."