Georgius Dragon

Georgius Dragon passed away peacefully, at the VA Wade Park Medical Center at the age of 91 on Thursday, April 3, 2025. The son of Paul and Mary Dragon (nee: Butchko).  He was born in Sheffield, Ohio, on November 25, 1933.

George married the love of his life Donna Wood February 11, 1956, at Mother of Sorrows Church. They were married for 67 years before her death July, 26, 2023.

Georgius lived a life marked by dedication to his country, his faith, his family and his community. He was a proud Marine in the Korean War. He served as a Buck Sergeant, from 1951-1954, demonstrating unwavering commitment to his country. After his military service, George embarked on a successful career at Elkem Metals from 1955-1987, where he eventually retired as a Plant Supervisor. His leadership and furnace expertise played a pivotal role in the operations of the plant, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

He was an amazing carpenter who built his family home and could fix anything. A devote parishioner, George worshipped at Our Lady of Peace Parish. He was a faithful Catholic and was committed to Catholic education for his children.  George loved his family especially his four grandchildren. It was utmost important for him to be present for all their sacraments, sporting events, graduations and special achievements.

He was an avid fan of the Cleveland Guardians and enjoyed sharing his love for baseball with his family, friends and community.  He spent several summers as a Senior League coach mentoring young men in baseball.

He had a special interest in history which he exercised through reading books and visiting many historical sites throughout the US. He enjoyed traveling; taking his family on vacation every summer. After retirement, he and his wife traveled all throughout Europe and the US, creating many lasting memories. George was also an avid gardener and canned with his wife every season. Additionally, he loved wintering in Florida with his wife for 30 years. 

Finally, he was a very proud Slovak and a member of The American Slovak Cultural Association of the Mahoning Valley. George will be remembered for his strong character, love for his country, and devotion to his family. His legacy leaves an indelible mark on all who knew him.

He is survived by his children, Valerie Gehalo, Georgia Dragon and George (Renee) Dragon; his beloved grandchildren, Thomas  Tj  (Gabi) Gehalo, Austin Gehalo ,  Megan (Jeffrey) Baisden and Bobby Dragon; and great-grandchild, Aden Baisden.

Funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday April 9, 2025 in Our Lady of Peace Parish, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 11:00 A.M. with Father Phillip Miller Officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5 to 7 P.M. in Guerriero Funeral Home 1550 West 19th St. in Ashtabula. Condolences can be made at guerrierofuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Georgius Dragon, please visit our floral store.