George C. Haas Sr

George C. Haas Sr., 80, of Salamanca, NY, was called home Monday, February 19, 2024 peacefully in the home he built.

Born September 20, 1943 in Salamanca, NY, he was the son of the late Harry and Lillian Frenz Haas.

George was born, raised, and lived his life in Salamanca. It was in this town that he became the “unofficial mayor” some might say. He began his career owning a Sunoco gas station, the heyday of his prize car, George’s Orange. Later, he turned a wrench at the local garage, had a local beverage route, and several other jobs for anyone who needed a hand. He was a motorhead and knew his way around anything that burned rubber. He traveled to car races far and wide and got to watch the sunset in Hawaii. He never missed a Buffalo Bills game.

George’s love for his family was an almighty force. He would speak of his parents with remembrance, his children with gleaming pride, his siblings, cousins, nieces, and nephews with happiness and kindness, and his grandchildren with a bottomless well of love. His many friends, even from states away, always knew they had a seat at his table.

His passion for his homestead was enduring. George was so proud of the home he built, garden he sowed, and the family, friends, and animals that shared a roof with him. His knowledge of the land was astounding. His love for animals was devout, from his dalmatian days, all the felines, Rowlo, Roxy, and Spike, who were his constant companions. He truly lived the high life.

Surviving are: a daughter, Susan (Chris) Magara; two sons, George Haas Jr, and Alexander Haas; ten grandchildren, Emily (Michael) Reithmiller, Ben Haas, Arielle Haas-Magara, Garek Haas, Devin Ling, Jonathan Ling, Jakob Ling, Kaleb Ling, Kingston, Scarlet, and Harper; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Anne French; several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a daughter, Alicia Haas, and a sister, Lana Violanti.

There will be no visitation.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Holy Cross Athletic Club, 35 Clinton Street, Salamanca, NY on Saturday, March 23, 2024 from 1 – 3 p.m. Please wear your favorite Hawaiian or flannel shirt!

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the O’Rourke & O’Rourke Inc. Funeral Home, 25 River Street, Salamanca, NY.

E-condolences can be sent to orourke.orourkefh@gmail.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.