George William Marshall
ST. PETERSBURG, FL - George W. Marshall, formerly of Milford, a wonderful, supportive, intriguing, smart, funny, clever, sometimes challenging, tough but fair, Daddy and loving husband and grandfather, passed away at his home on February 22, 2017. He was 87.
A depression era baby who lost his father when he was 4, he was raised by a single mother, his best friend; who also died February 22nd, 34 years earlier.
George was a successful well known Delaware businessman and avid sailor, one of the initial members of the Rehoboth Bay Sailing Association; he was a ferocious competitor in the Lightning class.
His true passion was tennis, he built a tennis court in his backyard and made certain his children knew the difference between a forehand and backhand before the age of three. Two of his children, Turtle and David, went on to become nationally ranked players.
He became quite a golfer and shot a Hole in One at Shawnee in Milford. He called his wife to share his excitement, was so overjoyed the words tumbled out on top of themselves, and she had no idea who was on the phone. George played often at Shawnee, and after 18 holes could typically be found holding a winning card hand wherever the hidden games were played.
George is survived by his wife of 46 years, Patricia (Thistlewood) Marshall; his six children, Rosanna (Eric Licht, JP Daniel, George Steiner - he adored all three husbands); Katie; Turtle (Joe Burton); Holly (Andy Johnson); Sally (Ken Koon); and David (Lori); and eight grandchildren, Max Licht, Kate Licht, Brittany Marshall, Teddy Nohren, Luke Burton, Jordan Marshall, Kelsey Nohren and Sarah Koon.
Services and burial were held privately.