Willard George Grant Lifelong Chatham resident Willard George Grant, known to all as George, died unexpectedly at 72 after complications from surgery at Albany Medical Center on April 24.
A Chatham High School graduate, George went on to attend Columbia-Greene Community College. He worked as an expert on oil tank installation and later became the owner and operator of the landscape and property management company Mowin' By George/Plowin' By George. He was a long serving member of the Chatham Fire Department and Chatham Rescue Squad, served as a Trustee for the Village of Chatham and was on Crellin Park's board. He played saxophone in the CCS band and as a member of the Ghent Band. Beside his big and warm personality, George also had a unique and remarkable ability to identify challenges and find solutions that eluded others.
A lifelong classic car enthusiast, George loved restoring antique cars and was actively involved in the Columbia Car Club. He was a racecar fan, spent many happy moments at Lebanon Valley Speedway, and was a NASCAR enthusiast. George had a giant heart for both animals and humans, and always had multiple dogs by his side or waiting for him at home. He enjoyed the fine food and even better company at Valatie's Main Street Diner almost daily.
George is predeceased by his parents, Willard and Eunice Grant, and leaves his loving wife, Ethel (Christiana) Grant, his sister Katherine (Grant) Gannett, his brother David, and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews. Calling hours will Tuesday April 30, 6 to 8 p.m. from the Wenk Funeral Home Chatham, Funeral service will be Wednesday 11:00am from the Wenk Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the St James Cemetery. Donations in honor of George can be made to the Chatham Fire Department or the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA. For on-line condolences, visit wenkfuneralhome.com.