George G. Pandell

George G. Pandell, 87 of Gaylord, passed away at home on Friday, July 10, 2015. Born in Grand Rapids on February 22, 1928, George was the son of Lawrence and Victoria (Hojnacki) Paniwozik.

George graduated from Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School. He served honorably in the United States Armed Forces from 1950-1952. While working, George completed training and received a certificate in Culinary Arts. Because his last name was difficult for others to spell or pronounce correctly, he had changed it prior to moving to Gaylord in 1958. He worked for 30 years as the culinary manager at the former Gaylord TB Sanitarium which later became the Gaylord State Home.

George was a dedicated parishioner at St. Mary Cathedral Parish. An avid area bowler, he was also secretary of the ABC bowling league. George enjoyed horseshoes and was instrumental in starting the area horseshoe league many years ago. He was a member of the Triple Ringer Club. An avid hunter and fisherman, George was also a fan of the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers.

Surviving are his children, Janice Pandell of New Hudson, Roberta (Brian) Kotso of Yuma, AZ, Eric Pandell of Gaylord and Monica (Robert) Allenbaugh of Casa Grande, AZ; grandchildren, Nicole DaRou, Amanda Gilmore, Katti Bull, Jordan Goff, Zach Pandell and Jenna Klopf; several great grandchildren; a brother, Joe Paniwozik of Morley and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Mike Paniwozik.

Friends may gather with the family beginning at 12:00 noon on Thursday, July 16, 2015 at St. Mary Cathedral where they will pray the Rosary at 12:00 noon followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 1:00 PM. Burial with military honors will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to St. Mary School. Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com.