Friday, August 19, 2016
Raised in Woodmere, Long Island, George Jay Litchblau early on excelled in science and mathematics. After a prominent science and engineering career at General Electric Corp. he developed in succession several major firms specializing in fiber optics and high tech electronic devices. He developed a large number of well regarded patents in fiber optics used both in the U.S. and abroad. George never retired. His work was his hobby and his hobby was his work. He was an "inventor" par excellence. Always looking to make improvements even in fields far from his traditional expertise. That curiosity extended even to complex equipment used in major hospitals. George and I were best friends for over 70 years. His early characteristics so observable in 5th grade when we first met persisted throughout his life. He was unusually courteous, cheerful, never daunted by adversity, generous, resourceful and a real old fashioned Gentlemen. He was and remains the finest friend I have ever known. One who I admired greatly and loved without reservation by our family. Throughout our many years of close friendship and more than a few adventures together we never had a serious argument. Despite his considerable personal and professional achievements he was humble, self effacing and courteous to all. In a word he was a "true friend" and kind to both friends and strangers alike in the best sense of the word. And for all his personal accomplishments delightfully unpretentious. In his earlier years George was that rare combination of an outstanding student and a fine athlete. He played Varsity Football and was a fine piano player. In later years he was devoted to Tennis. George was married to lovely Ann for almost half a century. She was the love of his life and he truly adored her without reservation. Together they were gracious hosts whose affection for each other radiated. Ann passed just 10 days before George gave up his valiant battle. Raised in relatively modest circumstances George was an "American Success Story" in the finest tradition who positively enhanced the lives of all he came in contact with. He was generous to a fault and one of those rare individuals who never spoke unkindly of others. But he did not care much for politicians.
