GEORGE ROBB KINNARD, JR. age 71, beloved husband for 48 years of Guenn Marie (nee Behrens); loving father of Chloe (Mark) Nightingale and Chantel Thibodeaux; devoted grandfather of Bertram, Reginald, Percival, Thurston and Hildebrand Nightingale and Desmond, Viera and Dartagnan “Ryker” Thibodeaux; eldest son of the late George and Alma (nee Holl); dearest brother of Deborah, Ann, Bruce, Holly, Jeff and the late Gavin; dear uncle and great-uncle of many.
George was born on March 25, 1952 in Norfolk, Virginia and passed away on July 22, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio with a full head of hair – the envy of his friends. After graduating from Berlin Heights High School and Cleveland State, he dedicated more than 35 years as a Chemical Engineer and Business Process Specialist for Lubrizol before retiring early, at the age of 61. George had many dedicated work colleagues locally, as well as Texas, France and beyond. His most memorable time spent was with project SAP, where he only received “the bag of shame” a handful of times for “NFG” coding errors.
After bidding farewell to the monotonous dance of the hustle and bustle, George wasted no time in seizing his newfound freedom, reveling in every moment of his well-deserved retirement. When George was not “on duty” with his grandkids, he spent most of his time with the Cleveland Touring Club. He dedicated countless hours helping others find the joy and health benefits of cycling. He was the club secretary for several years, member of the “Fugawis” and volunteered countless hours to ensure all activities ran smoothly. He often referred to himself as the “wheels of mayhem” and boy, did he sure do damage! George left this planet very dramatically, but that’s just how he rolled.
In the rest of his time, George could be found working out to jazz music, practicing marksmanship at the range, playing with his local grandchildren, writing short stories and reading. He was a long-time resident of Willoughby Hills and a proud member of the NRA.
Those who knew George described him as the “Best of the Best” who never had a bad word. He will be missed by all those who had the privilege to know him.
Unfortunately, sometimes accidents happen. Ride defensively and predictably. Wear your helmet, be aware of your surroundings and sweet Jesus, watch for debris! George practiced bicycle safety, and you should, too. For more information click HERE.
Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of George at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS, 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) FRIDAY, August 11, 2023 from 3-7 PM.
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Savy Asari
My sincere Condolences to the Family.
Vivian Furcsik
Rest in Peace dearest George. I have fond memories of your family, and always saw you as one of the kindest, wisest, most loving fathers I’ve ever known. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family at this difficult time.
Katie Powell
Chantel and Family, Our condolences go out to y’all and we are very sorry for y’all’s loss. Love Tim, Katie, Jake, and Granny.
Tashunda
My most sincere condolences to George’s family. Only our Creator knows the number of our days and the exit path we will take. Peace and comfort to you all.
It’s a great picture of George. We were “band buddies”, “bus buddies” and good friends in high school. Although it had been decades, since I saw him, his friendship held a special place in my heart. That place has not been vacated. His memory will always be for a blessing to me. May it be so for all who knew him as well.
Becky Johnson
George was a wonderful person to know. When I was the IT person for CTC, he and talked quite a bit about bicycle stuff, how to make the website better, etc. I’m a newby, compared to most in our group. I was always happy to see him at the library or in Concord. I think he was one of those people that could get along with anyone. I’m so sorry I missed the memorial. I didn’t get back in town until 6:30.
Julie Oki Maurey
My sincere condolences to the Kinnard family. George was a significant contributor to the bicycle club as Secretary, Ride Leader and Volunteer at large for various club events.
Safety first was always emphasized on his rides. He even carried extra tail lights to evening rides and would lend them to riders for visibility.
He invariably provided feedback to riders on safe riding skills as needed per his observation on his rides.
George was appreciative of other Club volunteers and always made it a point to personally thank those who volunteered on his rides or at club events.
Rest in peace George; you deserve it and certainly earned it.
JAMES L VARGO
George was the kindest,sweetest man that I know.My daughter Kristy and I rode with him with the CTC and the Fugawis. He welcomed my daughter with his smile and shepherd her in her skills and safety and always encouraged her. She is now a stronger and safer rider than me. She called from work bawling when she heard the devastating news. I went to CSU also and shared philosophies,books, and ideas with each other. I am sure George has prevented many accidents and perhaps loss of life due to his tutelage and example and most of us will pass it down to future generations. We will all meet again — but not yet, not yet.
Jamie Platt (CTC LC Member)
Just wanted to offer my most humble condolences. George, Kim & I spent many a meeting together over the years at the Kirtland library taking care of the Bike clubs needs, providing for its events and riders. George was always quick to assist when requested, with his vast knowledge of the CTC’s bylaws and club history. I rode with him several times, although only when he was hobbled from hip surgery as he was always a much stronger rider than I. Always ready to vet our routes for events and plot new ones if needed – he will be sorely missed at our functions. I regret we can’t join you in person due to being out of town on the date of his gathering, but the family remains in our prayers.
Sincerely – Jamie & Kim Platt
John Holl,Jr.
Sorry to hear of George’s passing. I have many fond memories of spending time with him and all the Ohio cousins during the summer back when we were all much younger. Rest in peace.
Jim Pintchuk
I’ve known George since he joined CTC. He jumped right in to lead rides, manage routes, and just help in any way he could. I road with him often. First on North Chagrin ride he led on Wednesday nights. More recently on rides with Ray the the retiree crew during the day. He was always kind and helpful to everyone who knew him. I’m so sorry for his passing .
My condolences to his family.
Lisa Chabut Wiltse
George was the backbone of the CTC, a humanitarian and a treasure to his bicycle community. Deepest condolences to his family.