George P. Canavan, 94, of Girardville, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, August 31st surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Ashland, he was a son of the late George D. and Helen Sweeney Canavan.

In addition to his parents, George was preceded in death by a grandson, Matthew Briel; his two brothers, Robert and James Canavan; and his sister, Ida Mae Canavan.

George worked as a coal miner and heavy equipment operator in the local coal mining industry, having last worked for the Gilberton Coal Company until his retirement.

A proud United States Army veteran, George served during the Korean War with the 8th Cavalry Regiment of the 1st Cavalry Division and was stationed at Camp King in Japan. He was a life member of the Girardville American Legion Post 309, where he served as steward of the Home Association for 24 years. He also proudly served on the Legion Honor Guard.

George’s love and dedication to his fellow veterans extended well beyond his military service. He spent countless hours restoring medallions and flag markers for veterans throughout many local cemeteries, ensuring that the service and sacrifice of those who came before him would continue to be honored and remembered.

George was also dedicated to his community, serving as the Mayor of Girardville from 1987 until 1993.

He had a great sense of humor and enjoyed entertaining his grandkids with his storytelling. He was a World War II history buff, who never missed an opportunity to share his knowledge with family and friends. But above all else, George was the rock of his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished his family and took great pride in his five children, 14 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His family was the most important part of his life, and his love, strength, and guidance will remain with them forever.

George is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Louise (Pulaski) Canavan; his two sons, Joseph Canavan; George Canavan and his wife, Liza; and his three daughters, Carol Williams and her husband, Dennis; Maureen Karlonis and her companion, Mark Antalosky; and Coleen Canavan and her companion, Gary Mazeika.

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jamie, EJ, Corey, Amanda, Alicia, Sean, Michael, Jacob, Jessie, Chloe, Chris, Josh, and Corine; his great-grandchildren, Justin, Baylee, Brady, Blake, Lux, Tripp, and Theo; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for George on Friday, September 4th at 11 a.m. from Saint Charles Borromeo Parish in Ashland. A viewing will be held Friday morning from 9 a.m. until the time of Mass. Interment with military honors will follow in Saint Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Fountain Springs.

Memorial contributions may be made in George’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Disabled American Veterans by clicking on the link.

Sign the guestbook, leave personal condolences, and for further information, please visit www.thomasmsullivanfuneralhome.com.

The Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Inc., Girardville, is in charge of the arrangements.