George Samuelian Obituary (1932

George Samuelian, 85, of Waukegan passed away on Friday, June 30, 2017 at JourneyCare in Glenview. He was born January 1, 1932 in Waukegan being the first baby born in Waukegan in 1932 and remained a lifelong resident. George was a founding member of St. George Armenian Apostolic Church in Waukegan and served as the church treasurer for 25 years. He started his education at Andrew Cooke Grade School from Kindergarten through 8th grade and graduated from Waukegan Township High School in January of 1949. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1951-1955 and was deployed during the Korean Conflict. Using his GI Bill he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Western Illinois University and earned his Master's Degree in Administration from Northern Illinois University. George started his teaching career in Waukegan School District #60 in 1960 and in 1972 he became the principal of North Elementary School. He retired in 1992 after 32 years in the district, and after retirement he worked as a substitute principal for many years. He enjoyed vacationing in Florida with his friends from Waukegan and spending summers at Brentwood Pool. George was an avid Chicago sports fan. He was especially excited to see his beloved Cubs win the World Series in 2016. He is survived by his sons, George Mark Samuelian of Waukegan, John Samuel (Patty) Samuelian of Waukegan, Edward Paul (Renee) Samuelian of Highland Park; grandchildren, Jack and Gina Samuelian; brother, Sam Samuelian of Racine; brothers-in-law, Frank (Pat) Merlo, Joe (Linda) Merlo; sisters-in-law, Margaret (Bill) Creamer, Mary (Peyton) Metzel; many nieces and nephews and a special caregiver that was with the family for over 20 years, Donna Flis. George is preceded in death by his wife, Vivian (nee Merlo) Samuelian in 2005; parents, Bedros and Kouhar Samuelian; sisters, Rose (Ed) LaMartin, Mary (John) Boyajian and sister-in-law, Anne Samuelian. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM on Thursday, July 6, 2017 at St. George Armenian Apostolic Church 1015 N. McAree Rd. Waukegan. Interment will be at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville. Visitation will be from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, July 5, 2017 at PETERSON & PATCH FUNERAL HOME 408 N. Sheridan Rd. Waukegan and from 9:00 AM to time of service at the church on Thursday. In lieu of flowers a donation in his name may be made to St. George Armenian Apostolic Church 1015 N. McAree Rd. Waukegan, Illinois 60085.