George E. Small Sr.

George E. Small Sr., 81, of Mayfield, formerly of Rotterdam, passed away on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at Albany Medical Center Hospital.

Born in Amsterdam, NY, George was the son of the late James and Beatrice Vrooman Small.

After graduating from Wilber H. Lynch High School in 1960, George enlisted in the U.S Army. He served honorably and was discharged in 1963. He was employed with the New York State Department of Health for 33 years and retired in 1999 as the Director of Computer Operations.  In his retirement years he spent his time building and remodeling with his son.  Together they rebuilt the family camp into a year-round home on Sacandaga Lake, which had been his dream come true.

In his younger years he enjoyed fishing, camping, skiing, golfing, and bowling in the Lutheran Mixed Bowling League with his wife and daughter.  George was a longtime member of Messiah Lutheran Church in Rotterdam serving as an usher, on the church council, and on the property committee.  He had just begun volunteering at the Bread of Life Food Pantry, also in Rotterdam.

In addition to his parents, George was also predeceased by his brother, Douglas Small.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Barbara Decowski Small, his son, and constant companion, George Small Jr. of Mayfield and daughter, Lisa (Philip) Wend of Rotterdam, two granddaughters, Erin and Elyse Piseczny as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins, and his faithful dog, Brodie.

George gave in death as he gave in life, with a gift of healing through tissue donation.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, July 22, from 11 am to 1 pm at Messiah Lutheran Church, 2850 Guilderland Ave, in Rotterdam.  A Memorial service will begin at the church at 1 pm.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bread of Life Food Pantry, 705 Curry Rd, Rotterdam 12306.