George M. Laska

WORCESTER - George M. Laska, 91, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 5, 2018 in the UMass Memorial Healthcare, University Campus, Worcester.

Born in Worcester, George was a son of the late Michael and Eftherpia (Kotnani) Laska, and lived in Worcester his entire life. He graduated from the former Commerce High School and received a Master’s Degree in Education from Clark University in 1950 and later earned a Doctorate in Education.

George’s love beyond his family, was for his church, St. Mary’s Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church in Worcester. He was a life-long member of St. Mary’s, serving as the President and Chairman of its Board of Directors (now Parish Council) for 5 terms. Additionally, George was Vice Chairman for Fund Raising and also served as Vice Chairman of the following committees at St. Mary’s: Its Bell Tower Committee, Sunday school extension committee, the Albanian Festival 6. George was Director of St. Mary’s Day Care Center for several years and took great pride in donating and caring for the trees in the front of the church. He also served as president of Illyrian Gardens located directly behind the Church. Wishing to honor the memories of his brothers, Peter and Paul who predeceased him, George created a fund in their names and donated the proceeds to the Chapel at St. Mary’s in their memories.

George received from the Albanian Orthodox Archdiocese in America its most prestigious KNIGHT OF ST. GEORGE Medal from Metropolitan Theodosius for his devotion and commitment to St. Mary’s Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church and his Albanian Heritage.

George’s love of education and the educational challenges of Worcester’s youth was the passion that he exemplified each day of his life as a teacher, Assistant Principal and Principal in the Worcester Public School System. Amongst the numerous positions he held were: Principal of South High School, Assistant Principal at Burncoat High School and Providence Junior High.

George served his country as a member of the United States Army /Air Force, after which he was a member of the VFW in Worcester. George also was a member of the Lincoln Square Boys Club, the Education Association of Worcester, Massachusetts Teachers' Association, and the National Educational Association.

George leaves a brother, Andrew M. Laska of Auburn; a sister-in-law, Violet E. Laska of Worcester and 8 nephews, nieces; and cousins. Two brothers, Peter Laska and Paul Laska and his wife, Hazel, in addition to a sister-in-law, Ruth Laska predeceased him. George also leaves a close personal friend, William “Bill” Johns, who together with George, worked diligently in support of St. Mary’s Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church. Additionally, we wish to thank David K. Boule, through whose efforts George was able to continue to live in his residence, as well as Vaillant Casimir for the care and assistance he provided to George in the past year. George also wished to thank Robert J. Boule for his friendship, dedication, and compassionate care extended to him over the many years.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather with George’s family on Monday, November 12, 2018 from 4:00 -6:00 PM and again from 9:00 – 10:00 AM on Tuesday, November 13, 2018 in St. Mary’s Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church, 535 Salisbury Street, Worcester.
The funeral service will commence at 10:00 AM in the Church with the Rev. Fr. Timothy Lowe and the Rev. Fr. Mark Doku officiating. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery, Worcester.

In lieu of flowers, and, if you wish to make a donation in George’s memory, contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Assumption Albanian Orthodox Church Endowment Fund, 535 Salisbury Street, Worcester 01609.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Philip G. Haddad, Jr. of Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, and Holden.

MAY HIS MEMORY BE ETERNAL