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George Raymond, 66

| March 10, 2010 12:37 PM

George Raymond, 66, our beloved husband, brother and friend, flew west for his final flight on March 5, 2010, leaving behind many who loved him dearly.

George was born in New York City, raised in Sharon Hill, Pa., and graduated from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. He leaves behind his wife, Diana of Tucson, Ariz.; brothers John (Linda) Raymond, Michael (Chrissy) Raymond and sister Kay Raymond and nieces and nephews.

George loved flying, logging in more than 35 years with United Airlines, the first two years in Customer Service in Newark and the remainder of his career as a pilot and FAA Check Airman. During his airline career he also continued bowling and participated in more than 15 ABC National events and was a member of the PBA from 1972-1979. He was chairman of the Denver Open for five years.

His love of flying was surpassed only by his passion for golf and his favorite place was the Club at Black Rock, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where he loved spending his time. It was there that he felt most at home of the many places that he lived. 

George’s true calling, however, was that of helping and befriending others, no matter who they were, and making them feel better about themselves. Whether it was one of the pilots having difficulty with a check ride, the waitress who was a single mom, or the young person he mentored at the golf club, he always took the time to find out what was going on in their lives and tried to help. He was generous, never spoke an unkind word and truly cared about others. He made friends wherever his travels took him. His competitive nature, wicked sense of humor and the joy he had in pulling one over on you…well, it was just George! He will be truly missed by his many friends and family.

In later years George was given a very heavy load to carry with more than his share of health challenges. He endured more than most could imagine and through it all he was never heard to complain or express doubt about the joy of living one’s life to the fullest. He never gave up on himself, or anyone he came in contact with.

A memorial service is planned in June in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

In lieu of flowers or donations, his family requests that in George’s memory, you simply perform a selfless act of kindness for another.