George T. Van Pelt, 91, of Worcester, passed away September 2nd after a valiant fight with the devastating effects of arteriosclerosis. He died as he lived, with honor, dignity and courage. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Gloria E. (Plotecia) Van Pelt; his two daughters, Glorene E. Houlihan and her husband, Michael T. of Worcester and Georgette S. Hugger and her husband, Peter F. of Jupiter, FL; four grandchildren, Jeannine Sherman and her husband, Scott, Corinne Murphy and her husband, Charles, Craig Hugger and his wife, Elizabeth and Brandon Houlihan; four great-grandchildren, Brady and Bryce Murphy, Zachary Sherman, and Sara Hugger; and many loving nephews, nieces and friends. He was predeceased by his sister, Lorraine Waytowich, aunt and uncle, Harry and Lucy (Neeves) Hartjen and cousin and best friend Harry Hartjen.
He was born in Brooklyn, NY, the son of Theodore T. and Susan (Neeves) Van Pelt; and grew up in Queens and was a graduate of Richmond Hill High School. Summer vacation from high school would find George working for Banker’s Indemnity in New York City. George served with the United States Army in the 100th Infantry Division from November 1942 until December of 1946, attaining the rank of Sergeant Major. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his participation and actions during the Rhine Campaign. Mr. Van Pelt later enrolled at the bequest of the Army at Western Maryland College. George was a card carrying member of the Sons of Bitche, an organization of the participants in the battle and occupation of Bitche, Germany. He was a humble man who rarely spoke of his military accomplishments.
In 1949 he married the love of his life Gloria, after meeting at their workplace, the U.S.F. & G. Insurance Company. George and Gloria were the epitome of a devoted couple; creating nurturing and loving homes in Elmont, NY and later in Worcester. He successfully pursued a career in the insurance business; first as an Underwriter for the U.S.F. & G. Insurance Company and in 1956 he joined the Hanover Insurance Company, maintaining an association with the company for 31 years. Working at the New York Branch he became Branch manager, a position he held until 1971; later that year he accepted a transfer to the Home Office of the Hanover Insurance Group and was promoted to the Manager of Massachusetts Auto division until he retired in April of 1987.
George was a faithful member of Christ the King Parish and will be remembered for his endless giving to those in need. He will be remembered as a kind, caring and nurturing gentleman. There wasn’t a mountain too high or a valley too low for him to cross when needed by family or friend.
His funeral is the 6th day of September, from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 2 p.m. in Christ the King Church, 1052 Pleasant Street. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Calling hours are 5th day, September 5, from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in his name to Christ the King Church, 1052 Pleasant Street, Worcester, MA 01602.