George Andrew Gayan

TUCSON, Ariz. — George Andrew Gayan passed away at his home on Aug. 4, 2016.

George was born in Bessemer, Mich., on Aug. 7, 1928, to Leo and Helen Gayan.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Leo and Walter; and his beloved wife of 52 years, Dora Helen.

He moved to Tucson in 1957 and worked as a mechanic at various garages before being employed by ASARCO in Silverbell for 25 years. After his retirement from ASARCO. he was employed for 17 years at Stewart Block in Tucson.

George was a faithful member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, where he served as an usher for many years. George loved his dear wife and their children and grandchildren, which were the joys of his life. He was an avid Arizona Wildcat fan and truly enjoyed following the various Wildcat teams.

George is survived by one son, James Kelly and wife, Terri, of Kirksville, Miss .; one daughter, Becky Neagle and husband, Joe, of Tucson; two sisters, Helen Kangas and Rose Haukkala, of Bessemer; two brothers, Bob Gayan, of Paradise,Texas, and Dick Gayan, of Belmont, N.C .; four grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be a memorial mass on Saturday, Aug.13, at 11 a.m., at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. Family and friends are invited to gather for a small lunch at the St. Elizabeth Ann School immediately following the service.

Burial will be at a later time at Evergreen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School or Casa de la Luce Hospice Center.