George J. Nauss

George Nauss 

July 30, 1931 – August 20, 2025

We lost a wonderful Dad, Uncle, Grandpa, and Great Grandpa when George, lovingly known by many as “Poppy,” passed away on August 20, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on July 30, 1931, in Queens, New York, George grew up in East Meadow back when the roads were still dirt and farmland stretched as far as you could see. He grew up alongside his siblings Herman, Betty, and Walter, all of whom predeceased him. From an early age, he worked hard—helping on local farms, landscaping, and at the neighborhood Dairy Barn—building the work ethic and strength of character that shaped the rest of his life.

George’s path led him to Nassau Community College, where he became the Supervisor of Grounds. It was there that he met Jean, who would become his wife and partner in a beautiful life together. The two built a family rooted in love, laughter, and Sunday dinners, and George always said meeting Jean was the best thing that ever happened to him.

He was fortunate enough to retire at the age of 57, which gave him the greatest gift of all—time. Time to babysit his first grandchild, Caitlyn, time to bowl with his East Meadow league, time to cheer on his beloved Mets and Islanders, time to attend his grandchildren’s sporting events and important ceremonies and graduations, which he was so proud to attend, and time to make memories with those who meant the most to him. In recent years, he discovered a new pastime—playing the slot machines at Jake’s 58, always with the same enthusiasm he brought to everything he did.

But more than anything, George loved being surrounded by family and friends. Whether it was a trip to the diner, a spirited conversation about sports, politics, or “the way things used to be,” or just sitting around the table with his children and grandchildren, he brought warmth, humor, and wisdom to every moment.

George is survived by his children Gloria (Lou), Robert, and George Jr.; his stepchildren Denise (Stephen), James (Karen), and Joanna (Todd); and his cherished grandchildren Caitlyn (Hugh), Joseph (soon-to-be bride Kim), Melanie (Patrick), Sarah, Justin, and Ian. He was also blessed to meet and play with his great-grandchildren Madison, Cody, Savanna, and John Joseph “J.J.” — each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

George was predeceased by his beloved wife Jean, who has been dearly missed for the last 20 years.

A celebration of George’s life will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Moloney’s Lake Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to share stories, laughter, and love in honor of a man whose greatest joy was the people around him.

The family hopes that he is reunited with all his family and friends who were lucky to have him in their lives — and that he is enjoying his favorite glass of Paisano wine.

In lieu of flowers, a donation is appreciated to the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, 371 NY-25, Smithtown, NY 11787. Phone: 631-930-9000. Online: Guide Dog Foundation