George R. Vassilew, age 67, a resident of Manitowoc, passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice in Sheboygan Falls.

George was born October 18, 1956, in Manitowoc, to the late Raymond and Bernice (Bodart) Vassilew. He began his education at Catholic Elementary School, continued with Manitowoc Public Schools, and graduated from Lincoln High School. George and Barbara Maples met when they were just teenagers, and their love blossomed. They were married January 20, 1979, and spent the best 33 years together before her passing in 2012. Barbara was his world, and although losing her left a significant void in his life, his grandchildren brought him immense comfort and joy in the years that followed. George was an A+ grandpa - he was their biggest cheerleader, supporter, and friend. He helped them find the same love of Martial Arts he had, and never turned down an opportunity to spend time with them. For most of George's working career, he and Barbara operated Group Homes in Wisconsin, but also spent some time operating one out in California, where they lived for several years. George was a simple man who lived a life without the material things - he loved reading, meditation, biking, camping (really anything outdoors), and telling some of the best stories for as long as you had time to listen. Above all, George loved his family more than anything, and will be deeply missed.

Survivors include his daughter: Desirae Vassilew; son: Jacob (Monica) Vassilew; six grandchildren: Marcus, Amara, Onyx, Julien, Evelyn, and Eva; three siblings: Mary Lou (Jerry) Bieberitz, Sandy (Rick) Haupt; and Roxanne (Geoff) Brown; and a sister-in-law: Pamela Kaufman. Nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends also survive. George was preceded in death by the love of his life: Barbara Vassilew; his parents: Raymond and Bernice Vassilew; a special nephew: Mike Amato; father-in-law and mother-in-law: Daniel and Lois Maples; and a brother-in-law: Tim Kaufman.

Cremation has taken place at Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory. In accordance with George's wishes, no public service will be held.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

George's family would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to both the home care and in-patient staffs of Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice for their compassionate care.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the Vassilew family.