George Stephen Shileika died on Feb. 11, 2022, at home after a short battle with cancer with his wife and family by his side.
George was born in New York, New York on Sept. 21, 1941, to George A. and Hilda Shileika. George moved as a young child to the Hiesson area and resided in Clark County the remainder of his life.
George graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1960 and after working various farm jobs, he went to work for Northwest Natural Gas Company. In 2002, George retired from the gas company after 40 years as a Leakage Inspector.
George also served six years in the Army National Guard. He is remembered saying to his great-grandchildren that getting to fire the big Howitzer guns was his favorite part.
George was a devoted, loving husband for 45 years to his wife Crystal (Chris). They enjoyed many trips to the beach, Branson and Nashville, Tennessee. They also traversed to the tropics of Hawaii, Jamaica and the Cook Islands. But most of all he enjoyed the many camping trips to Fort Stevens with his family.
Along with camping, George also enjoyed hunting and casino days as well as working on cars, and showing his pride and joy: a completely restored 1929 Model A hotrod. George won many awards at local car shows. Above all, his favorite time was always spent with his family, three grandkids and eight great-grandkids, where he was known as “Great Papa.” George was an incomparable Great Papa and was very involved with all of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
George is survived by his wife Chris; son Mike Shalduha; daughter Karyn (Rick) Williams; grandchildren Luke (Katy) Williams, Amanda (Ben) Key, and Samantha Shalduha; eight great-grandchildren Peyton, Colton, Jedidiah, Jameson, Jocelynn, Dylan, Kasey and Broox; siblings Craig, Ona and Bruce Shileika, and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family would like to give our heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the Kaiser Hospice team who helped us all through this difficult time. You are all angels on earth.
George will be laid to rest on March 19, 2022 at a private graveside ceremony for the family. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Kaiser Permanente Hospice at 2701 NW Vaughn St., Portland, Oregon, 97210.
