Editors note: I found the following on dignitymemorial.com - eulogies from current friends.
REMEMBERING George Willis Menasco Jr.
Robert King
February 19, 2019
I only just now learned of George’s passing. Eventhough I haven’t seen him as frequently as I use to, I felt a deep sense of loss, not just for myself, that too, but how George was so integral in the scheme of the colorful bohemian society that plays such an important roll in Pacific Grove life.
George knew them all, the beach gang at Lovers Point, the cafe society, adventures, and especially artist of all forms. He himself was a painter, sculptor, and a musician, a musicologists infact as he was keen on presenting and preserving the “ole timey” music, usually of Appalachia, sometimes strumming on his dulcimer, at other times on his guitar and harmonica, while singing old country songs. He was proud that his mother was born in Virginia where much of the music that he was so influenced by perhaps somehow came to him through her. Someone mentioned that George was also a historian, and I agree. I first met George when he was a teenager. He was a part of the beach gang at Lovers Point where some real interesting people gathered on nice sunny days. George was interested in everybody’s story and has retold them over many years since. He was a walking archive. Yes ,George was a Renaissance man in his own right, full of enthusiasm and creativity. But the most fascinating facet of George was that he was an inspiration to all that came in contact with him. He so beautifully demonstrated that no matter the circumstances and obsticals that one is presented with, one can still rise above it and live a successful and dynamic life.
His life really mattered.
Irene Evers Elisabeth
February 10, 2019
George well ol buddy you went before me, to bad we didn't bet on it. I would of lost. You have been my friend for 50 years and like an uncle to my daughter millie. She was so sad to hear of your passing and had wanted to introduce you to her prospective husband Andrew. Your dancing doll and dulcimer are in good hands (mine) and your music and art will go on . Shalom my good friend.
George well ol buddy you went before me, to bad we didn't bet on it. I would of lost. You have been my friend for 50 years and like an uncle to my daughter millie. She was so sad to hear of your passing and had wanted to introduce you to her prospective husband Andrew. Your dancing doll and dulcimer are in good hands (mine) and your music and art will go on . Shalom my good friend.
Marie Gilmore
January 6, 2019
George was my first artist friend when I moved to Pacific Grove in 1969. We talked art supplies and went to the Tuesday drawing group at the Art Center.
Later, he became my right hand man in setting up art classes, large benefits, and art openings at the Art Center when I became the President of the Board of Directors.
George was loyal. Never foolish. Hard working. Careful of his duties. Always on time. And willing. He was a dedicated artist and musician.
I will see him clearly in my mind and wish him a safe journey.
Clark Coleman
January 5, 2019
I didn’t get to say goodbye.
I had just visited with George on the Saturday just before his passing. I picked him up at his apartment and we had coffee together at Juice N’ Java, a Pacific Grove coffee shop that George liked to frequent. George would regale me with tales about the old days of Pacific Grove and the way things used to be. He had said he had seen many changes in the local art community over the years. He had been affiliated with The Pacific Grove Art Center, and, If I am not mistaken, he had been with the center since its inception. George would usually be seen on art openings and other special events at the center helping set up and clean up. He had an amazing work ethic.
George was a skilled artist both in paints and metal sculpture. I never once saw him without his small, faded light blue artist bag. He carried it everywhere in case he wanted to sketch or paint something on his travels around Pacific Grove.
He was also a self-taught musician. One of the many instruments he liked to play was the mountain dulcimer. I had the chance to see him play the dulcimer at various open mic events. He was very opinionated when it came to music and was not fond of “Rock and Roll.” He preferred playing, as he called it, “old-timey music.”
Though our friendship only spanned four years or so, he will be missed. Pacific Grove has lost a wonderful spirit. It’s heartbreaking to think the streets of Pacific Grove and the Pacific Grove Art Center will not be graced by George’s light anymore.
Goodbye George.
Pennie Hernandez
December 31, 2018
I grew up with George. Our families were intertwined and were always close friends. I always figured i'd pass before him even though he was four years older. Everyone talks about his art, but I remember his uncanny ability to pick up nearly any music instrument and play it. He used to play on guitar and sing Blackbird to me when I was down. We lost touch after the death of Gene Dobbs, another close friend. I thought about George recently and mentioned it to Rob and wondered where he was living. Then the news just a few minutes ago via Rob. Saying goodbye to the old year is nothing like saying goodbye to an old friend. Bye George, until we meet again. Much Love
Paula Brandon
December 31, 2018
George was a fixture at the Pacific Grove Art Center for many many years. He donated his art for fundraisers and cheerfully helped with everything he could. He loved to tell me jokes every time I saw him. He was a rich historian of Pacific Grove. George will be sorely misses.
Joan McCleary
December 29, 2018
George was always smiling, friendly, and helpful at the Pacific Grove Art Center for many years. He was ready and willing to set-up, clean-up, work in the kitchen, and do whatever needed to be done for everything from special events to the day-to-day operations of the Art Center.
He will be greatly missed by everyone at the Art Center, in Pacific Grove, and throughout the art community.
Charlsie Kelly
December 28, 2018
George always had the most positive spirit when talking about his art. He loved to paint and draw, and delighted in sharing his work with everyone. He was an honorary Board Member of the Pacific Grove Art Association, and he will be very much missed at every event, opening, or just in his regular rounds to chat.
|