Lonnie B. George's Obituary
Lonnie "Lonz" George, 78, of Lorain, Ohio, passed away peacefully after a long illness on June 25, 2026, at Ames Family Hospice House in Westlake.
Born on July 17, 1947, in Cleveland, Tennessee, to the late Lloyd George and Wanda (née Culverson) Canon, Lonnie's story was one of resilience long before most young men are ever asked to be strong. As a teenager, he learned to rely on determination, hard work, and the kindness of others. Finding a second home with the May family, especially the woman he lovingly knew as "Mom May," he forged lifelong friendships that became family. With the help of his best friend, Denny, and Mom May's unwavering belief in him, Lonnie balanced school while working at Fruehauf Trailer, a path that delayed his graduation until the Class of 1967, but taught him lessons that no classroom ever could.
Shortly after graduation, Lonnie answered his country's call and proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. His final duty station was Germany, where he purchased a well-worn Volkswagen Beetle that carried him through the countryside and sparked a lifelong love of the open road. After returning home, he briefly worked for the railroad.
From 1977 until his retirement in 2008, Lonnie faithfully served the citizens of Lorain County as a firefighter at Station 7, which he described as the best job in the world. The firehouse wasn't simply where he worked, it was where he found purpose, brotherhood, and countless opportunities to serve others. He carried immense pride in wearing the uniform and never lost his appreciation for the career that shaped so much of his life.
Away from the station, Lonnie embraced life with unmistakable style. Friends affectionately described him as a true "dapper dresser." Whether he was headed to dinner, a concert, or simply out for the day, he believed looking your best was simply part of living well. Even after riding his beloved Harley-Davidson, somehow his hair always managed to remain perfectly in place, a feat that amused everyone who knew him. He also worked as a bouncer at Starz Disco, where his presence was as memorable as his sharp wardrobe and easy smile. He was an excellent dancer, loved live music, and could often be found enjoying concerts at the Lorain Palace Theatre, Black River Landing, or Lakeview Park.
Adventure was woven throughout Lonnie's life. He enjoyed snowmobiling in his younger years and shared memorable motorcycle trips to Washington, D.C., and Arizona with a close friend. Retirement fulfilled another lifelong dream when he purchased the Porsche Boxster he had admired for years. Together, he and Georgene spent countless sunny afternoons with the top down, taking scenic drives to Catawba Island or trying their luck at nearby casinos. Yet some of his happiest moments were much simpler: meeting his coffee crew nearly every morning at Chris' Restaurant before COVID, spending time with his daughter Emily going to the movies, enjoying afternoons on the golf course, tending his summer garden while waiting for the season's first fresh tomatoes, or simply soaking up warm weather whenever he could.
Above all else, Lonnie treasured the people who shared his journey. He is survived by his loving partner of 19½ years, Georgene Matus; his cherished daughter, Emily George of Huron; his twin sister, Connie Hammond of Lorain; his brother by choice, Tom May (Ruby); and his longtime special friends, Sharon Trentadue, Cheryl Gatchell, Angie (Doug) Brown, and Jim Palmer, along with many extended family members, fellow firefighters, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his loyalty, humor, and friendship.
In addition to his parents, Lonnie was preceded in death by his beloved best friend, Denny; and his stepbrothers, Jerry Haff and Jimmy Canon.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Peggy at Live Love Lake for the genuine compassion and friendship she shared with Lonnie, and to Pasquel and the entire staff at Ames Family Hospice House for the comfort, kindness, and countless smiles they provided during his final days.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Lonnie's life on Monday, June 29, with visitation from 2:00 until 6:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 6:00 p.m., at Dovin & Reber Jones Funeral Home, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst. He will be privately laid to rest with military honors at Ridge Hill Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to All Call Charities online at https://allcallcharities.org. Online condolences and memories may be shared on Lonnie's memorial page at https://dovinreberjones.com.
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