George A. Pavel

George A. Pavel, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the age of 88. He was born on November 11, 1936, in Gary, Indiana, to Andrew and Mae Pavel (Zakula).

George dedicated much of his life to his family and his work, which included owning the Barbee Hotel as well as Pasou Foods, Inc. (home of the “Taco Stix”) both for almost 30 years. His career was marked by his commitment to service, reflecting his charismatic personality and genuine care for those around him. George loved meeting new people and building long-lasting friendships. George had a deep passion for basketball so much so that he established an IU fan club while at the Barbee Hotel. He graduated from Gary Edison High School in 1954 and served in the United States Marine Corps from 1955 to 1959, an experience that shaped his character and values. George was very proud to be a veteran and loved his country.

Family was the most important to George, and he cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. He married his first wife, Marguerite Kometz, on November 2, 1957, with whom he shared children: Georgette, Paul, Michele, and Christine. After Marguerite’s passing in 1992, George found love again and married Patricia Bowman on January 10, 1998, who passed in 2019. This union added her children Mary, Becky and Kim to their loving family.

George's vibrant spirit drew people to him, and he made friends wherever he went. He was known as a fun-loving and compassionate person, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a laugh. His love for life extended to many hobbies including going to Las Vegas, where he enjoyed poker and craps, along with watching sports—cheering for IU, Notre Dame, the Chicago Bears, and the Indianapolis Colts. He had a deep appreciation for boating and spent many days on the lake, alongside his family.

George was a longtime member of the North Webster American Legion Post 253 and the VFW Post 1342 in Syracuse. He was a 14-year member of the Wawasee Lakeside Chapel, where he made lasting connections in his community.

He is survived by his children, Georgette (Jeff) Gustin, Paul (Tami) Pavel, Michele Pavel and Christine (Jamie) Collins and stepchildren, Kim Bowman, Mary Letherman, and Becky McClouqhen. A proud grandfather, George leaves behind eight grandchildren: Brian (Merix) Gustin, Andrew Gustin, Steven Pavel, Lucas Pavel, Amanda (Aaron Merriman) Pavel, Amy Pavel, Jacob (Carolina) Collins, and Marguerite Collins, along with seven great-grandchildren: Mariah Williams, Parker Bowman, Gracie Pavel, Letty Pavel, Lily Pavel, Amelia Gustin and Cooper Collins, all who brought immense joy to his life.

Titus Funeral Home of North Webster is entrusted with the care of George and his family. Friends and family may gather there, 8056 E 500 N, North Webster, IN 46555, on Thursday August 28, 2025, from 2:00 pm until the funeral service at 4:00 pm. Pastor Harlan Steffen and Pastor Brad Cox will officiate his Life Celebration. George will be laid to rest at Mock Cemetery next to his wife, Marguerite.

George's family kindly requests that donations be made to Huntington's Disease Society of America, 505 Eighth Avenue, Suite 1402, New York, NY 10018, United States. To leave a condolence, please visit www.TitusFuneralHome.com