George Livingston Tuttle, Jr. of Warwick NY, a beloved brother, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully in his home on Tuesday, December 24th, 2013. He was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his passing. He was 66 years old and had resided in the area for 20 years.
The son of Betty and George Tuttle, he was born in Morristown, NJ on March 10, 1947 and raised in Boonton, NJ. He was Class Treasurer and President of the Debate Team at Boonton High School, where he graduated in 1965 as Salutatorian. He received his BA with honors from Drew University and a Masters in Economics from Syracuse University Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. At a very young age he became Director of Finance for the City of Paterson, NJ, and in later years took satisfaction in developing a well-respected painting company for the counties surrounding Warwick. George valued the personal relationships he developed with his clients and employees.
George was an animal lover, a quiet intellect, and was always respectful towards those from all walks of life. He enjoyed a big old farmhouse and a good chess game. He had unique bonds with his two sisters, and was most of all loving toward them and his three daughters. He is deeply loved by his family and in our hearts his gentle ways will never, never be replaced.
George was deeply moved by the following verse: “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:40 NIV. He often looked for small ways to help others without seeking recognition. George was a humble person.
He is survived by his siblings Ruth and Marcia. He is also survived by his three daughters, Abigail, Emily, and Katherine, five grandchildren, five nieces and nephews, his sons-in-law, Kevin O’Keeffe, Walter Dearing, and Jim Harper, and by his cats Merlin, Ginger, and Bow.
George and his first wife, Linda Bidlack, set the precedent for joint custody in the state of NJ after their separation. They maintained an amicable relationship in raising their daughter Abigail over the years. George continued to enjoy a close relationship with Linda's parents, Janet and Richard Bidlack, who welcomed his two younger daughters as their own grandchildren.
George was pre-deceased by both of his parents and by Olga, his unique and loving wife who left this world just three weeks ahead of him. George and Olga shared a deep relationship and spent 35 years together raising their daughters, reading great literature, traveling, rehabilitating an old farmhouse, and enjoying world-class musical performances.
All are welcome to celebrate his life with a memorial Mass to be held Sunday, December 29th, 3 p.m. at Christ Church, 50 South Street, Warwick, NY 10990, with reception to follow in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Christ Church’s general operating budget. Christ Church is a wonderful old Episcopal church that offers much-needed ministries for the local poor and has a big, big heart open for George , Olga and the Tuttle family. George’s family has taken great comfort in the uncommon and continued outpouring of support from the congregation and pastoral staff, along with their friends in the community.
George touched many lives and his was a life well lived. He was taken from us far too soon.