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George Stevens Obituary
STEVENS, George It is with great sadness that the family of George Stevens announces his passing on Monday, (February 5, 2007) at Hartford Hospital with his loving family by his side after a brave battle with leukemia. George guided us with his grace during a devastating illness that ultimately took him from the things he loved the most; family, friends, music, and teaching. We were amazed by George's courage and strength but we were most amazed by his ability to continue to have hope through this difficult journey. George was born on January 31, 1962 and had just celebrated his 45th birthday with family and friends. George was the loving son of Joan Caffrey Stevens and the late John F. Stevens. He was the adoring husband of Jill Andrew Stevens for 15 years, and devoted father to George Henry and Mackenzie Hope, all the loves of his life. George will be greatly missed by the Newington School community where he was a music teacher and orchestra director. George understood that it was a privilege to teach and his style and sense of humor endeared him to so many students, parents and staff who he loved so dearly. George would frequently start his classes with the expression "You are my inspiration", words we can all live by now when we think of this great man. George completed his bachelor's degree in teaching from Central Connecticut State University and was completing a master's degree at Boston University. The family is so thankful that George had the opportunity to play for his fans at the recent "Jammin' for George" benefit held in January at Newington High School. It was a magical night filled with much generosity by a "community" that loved George and made it possible for him to leave this earth knowing that he was so loved and had touched so many lives. George also leaves his brother Peter and his wife Carol; Aunts and Uncles; Lois Caffrey, Carroll and Jean Caffrey, George and Josephine Caffrey, Robert and Marylou Caffrey, Edward and Doris Stevens, Donald and Barbara Stevens, Richard and Pat Stevens, Eugene Stevens, Betsy and Ray Kensel and Janet and Dale Gallagher and many cousins; his father and mother-in-law, Ross and Lorraine Andrew of Middletown; sister-in-law Bonnie Gaudio and her husband Michael; brother-in-law Ross J. Andrew and his wife Lynda; brother-in-law Dana Andrew and his wife Mary; and sister-in-law Beth Andrew-Berry and her husband Brian. George will be greatly missed by his nieces and nephews; Michael, Matthew, Nathan, Evan and Emma Gaudio; Bailey, Owen and Whitney Andrew; and Wil Berry. George will also be missed by many long time friends; hockey players and musicians that he played with throughout the years. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Hartford Hospital and the Dana Farber Cancer Center; the Newington and Wethersfield Community; the Central Connecticut Hockey Association and all those who so generously supported them through these past eight months. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, February 9, 2007 at 10 a.m. at the Third Congregational Church, 94 Miner Street, Middletown. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date for the Newington school community. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the George Stevens Family Benefit Fund, c/o Bank of America, 600 Silas Deane Highway, Wethersfield, CT 06109. For on-line expressions of sympathy, please visit www.desopo.com.
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Memories and Condolences
for George Stevens
tiffany lombardi
June 16, 2007
Mr.Stevens. - can be explained in just a few simple words. An inspiration. My inspiration
Emily Buebendorf
February 18, 2007
I feel lucky to have known George in college... he was in one of my very first classes at CCSU and his smile and laughter will never be forgotten. Rest in eternal peace, wherever you are, and know that you were loved.
Christina Amor
February 14, 2007
I knew Mr.Stevens from music.he was a greate guy all around.Even if you didn't know him he would always say hi to you in the hallway.I will never forget the good times in orchestra.
i'll miss you
love always,
Christina Amor
Sabrina Strom
February 13, 2007
Mr. Stevens wasn't only a great person and a great teacher (my favorite in fact), he was also an amazing friend. I don't think that there was a single person who didn't like him. He was so nice and wouldn't get mad at you unless you were really really bad. I never saw him truly upset ever. We people in these entries probably sound like broken records by now, but he could always make me laugh when I was feeling down by saying "how you doin'" or giving me a high five. I remember that the room was so much happier just because he was there. He had a sparkle in his eye and such a comical little smile. If you were having a bad day, then you couldn't stay mad looking at him. He would always do impressions of funny people like Arnold Schwartzenegger to make me laugh. I loved being around him so much that of course my friends and I couldn't just stay for one lesson, we had to stay just a little while longer at least. I was sad in fifth grade that I didn't get him for general music that year, but he told me that since I promised I'd stay in orchestra that I was actually one of the lucky ones because it would turn out that I'd get to be his student all the way through high school. I guess not, but I am glad to have been his student for the best two and a half years of my life. I miss him, but I'm glad that I got to sneak backstage at the benefit concert and give him a hug before the stage helpers kicked me out (I wasn't supposed to be backstage but I snuck back anyway). I'll always remember that moment and others that I had with Mr. Stevens, I'll never forget him.
Sincerely,
Sabrina
Lori Castellani
February 13, 2007
I'm not sure why I was in the obituaries, it must have been a sign. I am so sorry to hear of George's passing. I too worked with him at lechmere. He truly was one of a kind. You couldn't get any nicer. He always talked of his wife and children and his music. I remember talking to him when he was thinking of leaving Lechmere to pursue a music career. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Megan Florek
February 12, 2007
Mr.Stevens was the best guy I knew. He would always say to me, "How you doin'." He was never mad. You would have to be a really bad kid and I mean a really bad kid to make him mad. The last time I saw him was at the benifit concert and he gave me a high five. I am glad I had a chance to talk to him and see how he was doing. My friends and I would always call him Mr. B-Bop. I will miss him so much and he will always be in my thoughts.
Lou Donato
February 11, 2007
I've just returned from Florida to receive this sad news about George. Barbara and I extend our deepest sympathy to you and the children. We will always remember the good time at Jodi's wedding with you two dancing and George breaking up the table with his humor.Filling in for George at the high school made me truly realize the impact he had with his students.
With affection,
Lou & Barbara Donato
peter hirschl
February 11, 2007
good-bye to a great person. if there's a god, you're jammin with jaco right now. i'll miss you.
Amber Lewis
February 10, 2007
Mr. Stevens was a great teacher, and a best friend. He will always be remembered at Martin Kellogg Middle School. In the seventh grade hallway, we are contributing a bulliten board to him that gives all the students a chance to write down some poems about him, or even some great memories. Mr. Stevens would walk by me and he would see that i wasn't having the greatest day and then he would say "How you doin" and would give me a high five which would make me smile. When I saw Mr. Stevens at the benefit concert on stage, I started to cry because I thought I was never going to see him before his time has come but then after that night, I went to George Henry's hockey game and got a chance to hug him and sit with him and that will be a moment that will always be cherishe in my life. I am truely sorry for your loss. George Jr., I will always be there for you. Love you soo much and hope you get through this time ok and if you don't, I will be there for you because you have made my day so many times so this is a thank you back and also to be with the heart that makes mine beat faster and faster. Happy Valentines day. Hope its a good one.
June Spencer
February 10, 2007
Dear Joan, Jill, George Henry and Mackenzie - My thoughts are with all of you. What a comfort it must be to know how loved George was by so many. His legacy will continue through his children and his students, all of whom he cherished.
Sincerely,
June Spencer
Kirsten Raynock
February 10, 2007
I knew Mr.Stevens from around school, but i wish that I had got the chance to get to know him even more. From what i could tell he was an amazing person, wonderful teacher,excellent musician,and a great role modle. I always look at him as someone who had followed their dreams with a possotive attitude. He will be missed very much by my family, friends and I and will always be in my thoughts and prayers. I also pray that others will have the same high spirits through the good times and bad just as he did. I'll love him forever and ever.
xoxoxox
love always,
Kirsten Raynock
<333
Magie Alves
February 9, 2007
To the Stevens Family,
George will be very missed at MKMS. He was such an upbeat person with such an infectious personality. I will always remember the group of children following him around during recess because they just couldn't stay away from him. They would hang on every word he'd say. That's how wonderful he was! Hopefully one day we will all meet up with George again and he'll greet us with his "How u doin'?"
Nettie McLean
February 9, 2007
Dear Joan and Family:
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your beloved son. I will keep you in prayer to our Lord to grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time. It is my hope that the many memories of your son will console you.
sincerely,
Nettie McLean
Frank Zwolinski
February 9, 2007
To the Stevens family,
I'm sorry to hear about your loss. I was with George at Maloney High School; we were always playing music together at any given time. I can't count how many bands or jazz groups we were in together. I have very fond memories of George and I was touched when I read the other entries in this guestbook. I'm sure he was loved by all who were in contact with him, and I'm sure he loved them and inspired them as well!
God bless you and help through this difficult time.
Nicole Sullivan-Teasley
February 9, 2007
George you will be greatly missed. I had the pleasure of working with George when he was a manager at Lechmere. He had the greatest personalty, he made your day on the worst days with his humor and he was a joy to work with. I say to the family do not grieve be joyful because now he will be amongst the Angels, playing his music for Our Lord and Savior.
Monique Angell
February 8, 2007
I want to express my deepest sympathies for your loss. When I first found out Mr Stevens was sick, my heart sank. I had the privilege of having Mr. Stevens as a teacher in my senior year of high school, as well as working with him as an assistant in the Saturday music program, and fellow musician in an orchestra at CCSU. He was an amazing individual, definitely well-loved in the school community, and a joy to work with. He will be missed.
Denise (Russo) Poland
February 8, 2007
My sympathy goes out to George's family during this most difficult time. I was in high school band with him and he was a great mentor to all no matter what grade you were in.
Meghan Eldridge
February 8, 2007
I knew mr. stevens from when he was my orchestra teacher. He was the best music teacher that there was! We always had funny moments and I would always talk to him when I saw him. I'm so sorry that he has passed away. He was very special to me, and I am sure to other people too. Mr. Stevens you are in my heart and in many others hearts too. We love you and you will be greatly missed!
Rebecca
February 8, 2007
To the Stevens family,
I would just like to share my deepest sympathy with all of you during this rough time. Mr.Stevens had to be one of the most amazing teachers, and i was blessed to have known him. I will never forget his warming smile and his sense of humor. The Newington Community will miss him vary much. I am once again sorry for your loss,and you all are in our prayers.
Rita McKenna
February 8, 2007
Dear Jill and family,
My thoughts are with you during this time of great sadness. "Those we have laughed with, learned from leaned on,and loved the most leave us the very best memories". I hope you can find comfort in your memories and in the memories George has created for others.
Rita
Tom & Barbara Folan
February 8, 2007
We are sorry to hear of the passing of George. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Please extend our condolences to Joan Stevens.
Ted & Beverly Coitrone
February 8, 2007
We are very sorry for your loss. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Also express our condolences to Joan Stevens.
Susanne Quillen Woodstock
February 8, 2007
To the Stevens Family,
I was good friends with George many years ago- what a special man! I was so sad to hear of his passing, what a loss. I feel lucky to have known him; he had a way of making you feel better, happier, just by talking to him. God bless you all.
Natasha Favrow
February 8, 2007
Probably the most inspiring teacher I've ever had. He wrote me an amazing recommendation for college and I don't think I ever expressed to him how much I appreciated it. I had recently went back to Newington High School looking for him to say hi, not knowing anything about his condition, and obviously, he wasn't there.
You were one of the greatest people I ever knew and I'll miss you so much.. Rest In Peace Mr. Stevens you'll never be forgotten.
Lana Sawyer
February 8, 2007
Jill,
Please know I am praying for you and your children. I pray for your strength and courage as you begin to face the days ahead. Hang on to all the wonderful memories you and your husband shared. May God surround you with grace and mercy.
David Emmel
February 8, 2007
The Stevens Family
We were so sorry to learn of George's passing. His quiet courage was an inspiration to all of us. I know he will be deeply missed by all of you and the many young lives that he touched. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dr. Emmel, Eileen & Marianne
Paul Schiller
February 7, 2007
To the Stevens Family,
I would like to offer my deepest and most sincere condolences on the passing of one of the most genuine people a person could even have the pleasure to know in their lifetime. Mr. Stevens not only helped his students musically but also helped them through life. When I hit a rough patch a couple years ago George was there to help. Despite his busy schedule, George always found time to assist everyone in need of his expertise. His humor helped to move us through the worst of rehearsals and the worst overall days. The only regret that I have is that I couldn't have more time to get to know George before his illness came about, but I do know that he is up in heaven right know looking down at all of the people whom he has touched. Also, I wouldn't be surprised if he has picked a bass and started playing jazz for heavaely crowds who would be cheering him on, without a doubt. Rest in Peace George. We all miss you.
-Paulie
Megan Hayes
February 7, 2007
Dear Stevens family,
I will miss Mr. Stevens alot. I will miss how he said "How u doin" while he walked past me in the hallway, and his funny jokes that would make me smile on a bad day. I miss him a lot. He was a great teacher. I am sorry for your loss. From a kid that is proud to have been a student of Mr. Stevens.
Patricia Legere/Doherty
February 7, 2007
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I knew George in high school and through my cousin Jimmy. He was a great guy and always made you laugh. My prayers are with you.
Nicole
February 7, 2007
Mr. Stevens,
You were such an insperation for me as I was going through my middle school years. You always had a smile on your face and were always happy. You were such a great teacher. I will always love you and you will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. You will be missed so much.
Amanda Claffey
February 7, 2007
Mr. Stevens has been my orchestra teacher since 7th grade and such a huge inspiration to me. He was not only there for me and everyone else as a teacher but also a friend. Nobody could ever replace his great sense of humor and caring attitude towards his life, job and family. He will be greatly missed. I will never forget him and forever cherish his outlook on life.
sarah menta
February 7, 2007
mr stevens was one of my favorite teachers. he always had a smile on his face and he will be greatly missed.
rest in peace mr stevens.
Katelyn Silverwatch
February 7, 2007
The Stevens Family,
I am terribly sorry about your loss. Mr. Stevens was one remarkable man as a teacher and friend. I will never forget all of the wonderful memories that I had with him. He was such a funny guy that always made me laugh. He knew what to say whenever I was down. He is my hero and I will never forget him.
Kaitlyn Verzi
February 7, 2007
Mr.Stevens Had to Be And Still is One Of the Best Teachers in MKMS!!
We all Miss Him Sooo Much.. And He Will always Be in our Hearts..<333
MKMS Misses You
Laura McCormack
February 7, 2007
To Joan and Family
I am so very sorry for your loss.
Becky Corcoran
February 7, 2007
Stevens' Family -
He was an inspiration to us all. One thing many other people didn't get the wonderful chance to do, was to know he wasn't just a teacher, he was more than that, he conected with each and every student. It was a privledge to know him for the time I did. Jill, you have been so strong through his battle and continue to be a living vision of him. God bless you all! Much Love.
Jenna DuBois
February 7, 2007
Mr. Stevens,
We will all miss you greatly and will never forget all of the great things you've done for the music department at MKMS and NHS. You were an awesome inspiration to all of us that have interest in music. I looked foward to having you as a band director because I knew that you would do everything in your power to make us sound great. I will never forget the wonderful times with you, especially when we went to Lake Compounce for Jazz Band last year, and also when you did the Blues Brothers part for one of our band pieces in 8th grade. Again, we miss you and will always have you in our hearts.
-Jenna DuBois
M. Miller
February 7, 2007
Mr. Stevens was one of my favorite teachers. He was always funny and full of energy. It was nice to end my senior year of high school with him back in 2003. He looked great on that stage a month ago at his benefit concert and I am so glad that he was able to get up there and play. He has been a great inspiration to me.
Kelly, Dave & Matt Clark
February 7, 2007
Dear Jill, George and Mackenzie,
We are so sorry for you loss. George was a wonderful man. We know he will be a part of every life he touched during his time here with us.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers now and always.
The Soundbridge Staff
February 7, 2007
Jill, George and Mackenzie,
Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Jeffrey DesRosier
February 7, 2007
You will always be remembered
Sue Malley
February 7, 2007
Joan & Family, My prayers and
thoughts are with you during this
difficult time. I am so sorry to
hear of your loss.
Charlene DeLaura
February 7, 2007
Dear Joan,
Please know that your friends at CCSU have you and your family in our prayers. Jim and I are so very sorry for your loss. Please accept our sincere sympathy. Love, Charlene & Jim DeLaura
Michelle F. Toucey
February 7, 2007
Dear Joan - you have been in my thoughts so much since I saw you at Christmas - I've prayed for both you and your son, George. It deeply saddens me that he's no longer with you. What an amazing young man, one obviously loved by a great many. If there is anything I can do for you, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Michelle
Rebecca Powers
February 7, 2007
George will be terribly missed. He was such an outgoing, charasmatic man who brought laughter and light into every room he entered. George's love for his students and faculty will never be forgotten. What a wonderful human being. I hope that you can find peace and comfort through this difficult time.
Miss you George!!!
MKMS 6th Grade
Jacquelyn Campbell
February 7, 2007
Joan, Jill, George Henry and Mackenzie,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this saddest of times. He will be with us always.
Jackie, Jaime and Cameron Campbell
Deb Sozanski
February 7, 2007
Jill and family,
With deepest sympathy, we are sorry to hear of your loss.
The Sozanski Family
Melanie Paterno
February 7, 2007
Dear Stevens Family: Words are hard to say at this time, but knowing that George is at peace and no longer suffering will hopefully get you through this difficult time. What an AMAZING guy with so much love and passion for his students and family...He is truly missed by us all and we will never forget all of the wonderful memories we have of him. May God grant you the love and support needed during this tough time.
TJ Del Conte
February 7, 2007
Everyone at the NHS music department will miss Mr. Stevens greatly, from his German impressions, to his other jokes and his uncanny ability to connect with us like no other teacher could.
I will always remember the devotion the pit orchestra gave him when it looked like we were going to fail, and we came through on top. It was this kind of inspiration that he could give us as students I have never seen before.
I am upset that he was not able to help us this year in marching band, I was sure with his inspiration we were going to be unbeatable. But now all we can do is look in the past and say. Thank you Mr. Stevens you will be remembered forever.
Marianne Angelillo
February 7, 2007
Jill, George Henry, and Mackenzie Hope,
It is with such sadness that I send this message of sympathy. I want you to know you are all in my thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time in your lives. With my deepest sympathy.
Kathy and Kevin Lauretti
February 7, 2007
Our daughter Sarah and our son Kevin were blessed to have had their lives touched and inspired by George Stevens. His love of music and of life will live on forever in our family. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Karen Sullivan and Matt Cusano
February 7, 2007
The Stevens Family, we have fond memories from Carmen's house long ago. Jill, you and your children our in our thoughts and prayers. With Sympathy, Karen and Matt
Randi Iaco
February 7, 2007
My heart goes out to the Stevens family and we must look to God in these hard times. Mr. Stevens was an awesome person and an inspirtation to all of his students. He encouraged me to be the best musician I could be and supported me throughout my four years in high school. When I think of him, I think most of his humor and the funny things he always said. He will be missed a lot and God bless him and his family.
Bob & Laurie Lecrenier
February 7, 2007
George, Jill & Family
To my friend & neighbor
You will always be in my heart & memories. You did more in your short time here than others dream of
Priscilla Swanson
February 7, 2007
Although we cannot be with you at this sad time, please know that you are in our thoughts.
Uncle Joel and Aunt Priscilla
Stephanie Ronczka
February 7, 2007
I didn't know you very well, but during a saturday course, we worked together and you helped me alot. thank you, Mr. Stevens, and you will be missed so much by some many people. You'll always be in our hearts.
Kristen Zimmerman
February 7, 2007
I feel honored to have had George in my life. I learned so much from him when we went to school together and he always made me laugh! May he rest in eternal peace, and always live on in our memories! Lots of love to Jill and the kids.
JOHN YOUNG
February 7, 2007
DEAR JOAN AND FAMILY, MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR BELOVED SON GEORGE. MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE.
SINCERLY, JOHN A. YOUNG (CLASSMATE)
Tracy Lesinski
February 6, 2007
MR. Stevens
You will be missed very much in the schools in Newington. NHS MARCHING Band will not be the same. even though i was only part of pit crew and took a class with you. your jokes will all aways be with me. RIP Buddy. your with god now watching over us all.
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