George Michael Szabla's Obituary
George Michael Szabla passed away at the age of 72 on April 3rd, 2018 at Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma subsequent to a hemorrhagic stroke. His memorial service will be held at Fellowship Lutheran Church, 6727 S. Sheridan Road, Tulsa, OK 74133, Saturday, April 7th, 2018 at 11am. George was born on January 5th, 1946 in Buffalo, New York to the parents of Eva P. (Bater) and George A. Szabla. He joined the U.S. Army and served his country honorably during the years of 1968-1971. Upon returning from the service, he married Linda George on August 14th, 1971, and together they raised 2 daughters, Kristen and Stacy. George gained a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technology from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1972 and had a successful career in the manufacturing industry at Harrison Radiators, a division of General Motors, (1972-1983) and then as Director of Operations at Nordam (1983-1995). George went on to consult for various aircraft companies until 2015. In his spare time, George enjoyed golf, spending time with family and friends, hanging out with his dog and good buddy, Ben, and volunteering for his church’s veterans’ advocacy mission. His family paid him the following tribute “George had an infectious smile, a jovial laugh, and embodied the strengths of persistence and resilience.” He is survived by his wife; Linda Szabla, daughters; Kristen Szabla, Stacy Szabla and her husband Derek Nunn, brother; Philip Szabla and his wife Janice Trybus and their children, Christopher and Anne, mother-in-law; Naomi George, as well as numerous cousins. Memorial contributions can be made in George’s honor to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA, www.ASPCA.org) or Fellowship Lutheran Church (www.flctulsa.org).
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