George was born the day before Victory Day in 1945 and grew up with his three

sisters in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania. He was a hard worker and earned a scholarship to

the University of Pennsylvania based on his success in academics and wrestling. After

graduating from Penn and Wharton, George began working for the US Treasury

Department as the special assistant to the Treasurer. Shortly after leaving Washington,

George and Clare moved back to Philadelphia and got married. In September of 1985,

they adopted Clay, their first child. Then in June of 1988, they adopted LeeLee, and

their family was complete. George held various titles throughout his life, but none more

fitting than the title of Dad. He loved watching his children grow and was constantly

involved in everything they did. The highs and the lows, constantly supporting and

always trying to guide them in the right direction. Over the years, Clay began to spiral

deeper into his alcoholism and addictions. The family dynamic began to change, and

George tried as hard as he could to help his son, but with little success. Clay had to

want to change and had to have the willingness to ask for help. When he finally asked

for help and reached out, George was there in a heartbeat. After wilderness therapy, the

Cross’ decided to send their son to Ascend Recovery in Utah. George attended family

programs at Ascend and continued to be involved in Clay’s recovery. He constantly

pushed Clay to help others that were struggling with addiction and was so grateful for

everything that Ascend gave to his family and the other families they served.