Otego - George Rudolph Dolezel joined our angels in heaven on Saturday August 13, 2016 at home, with his beloved family by his side.

George was born on May 1, 1949 in Sidney, New York, the son of George Charles (Kovar) Dolezel and Virginia (Mac Arthur) Dolezel.

George graduated from Unatego High School in Otego, New York in 1967. During his formative years, George worked hard as a mason's apprentice under the mentorship of the one and only "Uncle Jerry" Bouton. George did not recognize his talent for masonry at that time, however, later in life he would go on to become the most accomplished mason this area has known.

George served his country proudly in the Army from 1970-1972.

In 1975 George opened Dole Contracting and utilized his gifts for both plumbing and masonry to support his family and fund his own collegeeducation. George received his Bachelors of Elementary Education degree from SUNY Oneonta in 1979. Upon receiving his college degree, George decided to give back to the community he adored by teaching high school biology and earth science at Unatego Central School from 1980 to 1982. And oh how those Unatego gals loved George! As he would say "After all Lis, I was easy on the eye!" Following his tenure at Unatego,George recognized the need to be his own boss and decided to return to the trade he loved. He invested his time in his masonry business while devoting himself to his family and friends. After twenty-four more years in his own business, George's knees began to fail and he finally decided to put down his trowel. He then began to share his knowledge with the young, aspiring masons at SUNY Delhi, an experience which would move him deeply and change his perspective forever. George was blessed with the opportunity to teach at SUNY Delhi for ten years. During that time George met several colleagues whom he always considered dear friends along his path, far too numerous to mention. Each meant so much to him and we know how very deeply you will miss him. We see you, we hear you, and we feel you. Thank you for always being there.

George led a life of service, dedicating several years to the Otego Fire Department, Otego Town Council, The Oneonta American Legion post 259 and most recently, The Oneonta Elks Club BPOE 1312 as Exalted Ruler. George also served as president and treasurer for the sixth Ward athletic club. These are all organizations which George deemed worthy of his time and deeply believed in supporting.

George is survived by his adoring wife, Lisa Lynn (Nowhitney) Dolezel. Also surviving are Marilyn (Stevens) Dolezel with sons Mat (Anne) Dolezel, Luke Dolezel and Nathan Dolezel. Leslie (McLaud) Dolezel and son Daniel (Laurie) Dolezel.
George was predeceased by a beautiful daughter, whom he cherished,Virginia (Ginny) Dolezel in 2011. Surviving Ginny are five of George's beautiful grandchildren; Skyler, Jacob, Jade, Daniel and Logan Desersa. George is further survived by his three siblings; Douglas (Susan) Dolezel, Dwight (Janet) Dolezel, Anita (Thomas) Sears and several nieces and nephews, all of whom have been a true family to Lisa and have blessed her with a tremendous amount of support during this very difficult time.

George had incredible intellect, a compassionate soul, a passion for living life to the fullest, a quick, dry wit and he never, ever, forgot anyone's birthday. He was the kindest man we have ever known and he will be deeply missed beyond measure.

A celebration of life will be held at the Oneonta Elks Lodge BPOE 1312 on September 2, 2016 from 4 to 8 pm. A formal Lodge of Sorrows Service will be held at 6pm. Our beautiful, strong family will be in attendance and all of George's friends are welcome to join us in celebration of his incredible life. Bring one of George's favorite dishes to share with our endless family and let us raise a glass at "Ye ole' Mahogany Ridge" to a life well lived. Bring a photo or share a verbal memory of our beloved George.

Donations or acts of service may be made in George's name to the organizations mentioned above, whom George deemed worthy, inclusive of SUNY Delhi. George would want you to remember him with a smile, a laugh and something cold in your hand, so we will remind you of some of his favorite quotes: "Quit chasing the puppy", "There's something the matter with you Lis", "It never rains in the big tree", "Don't dump the ice", "220/221 what difference does it make", "there is really nothing to it", "I am technosabe", "you can't get there from here"….

On line expressions of sympathy may be sent to, www.lhpfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are by Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St, Oneonta.