George Leon Dattel, 79

Our dear friend and loved one George Leon Dattel, born in Torrington, Conn., on Feb. 22, 1933, passed on Aug. 14 in Hayden, Idaho.

George was born the third child of Leon and Mary (Fedore) Dattel. He joined brother Leon and sister Barbara. As an adult George married and had three children Michael, Kathleen, and James. He joined the Army and served his country for several years. George then made his future driving trucks for International Transport and later, Pacific State Trucking. He truly enjoyed the freedom the road had to offer.

Upon retiring, George settled in Athol, Idaho, just a few miles from his brother Leon, whom he loved very much. Though George was a very independent man, he won your heart when he let you in.

The community of Athol was the village that cared and watched over George. He ate at the Country Boy Café every morning and then made his way to KKJ’s Pizza Place, and Movies and More for his daily rental of many movies. We as a community and several of us as individuals watched George transform from a man who kept everyone at arm’s length, to a man who learned to accept love, as well as give it. We will miss you George and count it a blessing and an honor to have been a part of your life. Thank you for letting us in.

Special thanks to the staff at Hayden Assisted Living and especially Darcie for your loving big heart.

There will be a memorial service sometime in October, when George’s best buddy returns home from the Bering Sea. There will be details at Country Boy Café and KKJ’s Pizza in Athol as the time approaches. He will be laid to rest in Medical Lake, Wash. at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery. English Funeral Chapel of Coeur d'Alene has been entrusted to handle final arrangements. Please visit George's online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.