George Edward Driver's Obituary
DRIVER, George Edward 96, of Clearwater, passed away April 22, 2017.
Born on May 8, 1920 in Mayo, FL, as one of nine children, George moved with his family to the Clearwater area in 1935. Together his family helped build Mease Dunedin Hospital in exchange for the promise of free medical treatment during their lifetimes. At 15 years old, George began working with a local contracting firm operating the cranes used to construct the seawall along Edgewater Drive. George was also a decorated US Army Veteran serving in both the European Theatre during World War II and the Korean War.
Described by his children as the “last great gentleman,” George was humble, honorable, witty, and loved his family unconditionally. He was renowned for his storytelling, recalling memories of growing up during the depression and his times overseas. Material possessions didn’t matter to him. Instead, he found joy and peace in nature and enjoyed admiring the trees and the animals on his daily walks, a hobby that he cherished. In addition to his nature walks, George was an avid freshwater fisherman. He also enjoyed traveling out West where he enjoyed seeing the beautiful landscapes and mountains, horseback riding, and his most favorite, riding the steam locomotives.
George is survived by his three children, Ellen Driver Jones (Michael Stapleton), Georgeanna Higdon (Phillip), and Danny Driver (Sandy); his sister Fran Phillips (Rufus); his longest and dearest friend, Tom Jones; seven grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren. A gathering for family and friends will take place on Friday, April 28th from 3 pm to 4 pm at Moss Feaster Funeral Home in Dunedin. A memorial service will begin immediately following the gathering at 4 pm.
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