Missing our friend George Elbel

[Mac VP]

Some of you folks came to know George when visiting our transmission shop here in Cincinnati, and others had the opportunity to meet him during our transmission school last September. Sadly George passed away July 28th. He’d been dealing with cancer for a few years and we’d hoped that he’d bought some more time. George was a prince of a man and made friends easily. He loved flying and served his country as a Marine pilot during the Vietnam war. That lead to a long career flying as a commercial pilot before his mandatory retirement. George absolutely loved cars and owned a small fleet of mostly early Fords. He excelled in repairing and maintaining his cars. He also loved old Triumph motorcycles. One day, several years ago, he expressed an interest in working at our shop. I doubt that the money was important to him. We know that he loved coming to work here and helping out. I could go on and on about this man, but mainly I wanted to say that we’re missing him, missing his smiling face, and his dedication to doing things the correct way. And just plain, missing our friendship.

[rockfla]

Wow, so sad to read this Mac, George was such a calm and patient guy. Loved his passion for the old cars and old car hobby. Prayers and blessing to George's family and to the VanPelt family for such a great loss. I will count my blessings as one fortunate enough to have met George and to have learned from his expertise.

[flatford8]

We never met but…….RIP George………condolences to his friends and family……….Mark

[KiWinUS]

Very sad to hear. RIP George. A grand pleasure to have met him. Our condolences to his family.

[Joe B.]

Sounds like he was a great great guy.

[Pat/Ohio]

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George was a dear friend of mine and many in our Early Ford RG 141. He will be missed. I am glad that we had an opportunity to work the Central National Meet in Auburn together. I knew he wasn't feeling well, but he worked tirelessly in the 95 degree temperatures parking trailers and judging. He was always offering his help and wisdom to anyone. His car collection will be offered for sale through the Early Ford Foundation Museum. George, we miss you Buddy!

Blessings,
Pat

[TJ]

George was a great guy and he will be missed by many. Met him many years ago at one of the of the Grand National Meets in Dearborn. Sincere condolences to his family.

[1952henry]

Sympathy to his family, and you, Mac.

[V8COOPMAN]

.

Anyone that loved that unique sound that early Triumphs make, as well as being an early aviator just has to be someone 'very special'! My condolences, most sincerely.

Coop


.

[Tim Ayers]

George certainly seemed like a gentleman and had some really interesting life stories. My condolences to his friends and family.

[corvette8n]

Mac: sorry for the loss of your friend and employee George. Your tribute to him gave us a little insight on to who he truly was.

[B-O-B]

Sorry to hear this. Condolences go out to his family & friends may he rest in peace. Thanks for the heads up Mac & best wishes to you & Model A Lady.

[sshep]

Darn, I can't believe I missed this when it was posted. I got this sad news today. I met George at Mac's transmission class last year. Everyone at the class was so nice and George was no exception. I really enjoyed his stories at lunch and him driving his Model A and 40 Sedan to the shop was really cool as well. I am sorry to his friends and family for his loss. He was definitely one of the good ones. Rest in peace George, you earned it.

[sshep]

[Pat/Ohio]

George was not only generous with sharing his time and knowledge, but also his wishes was to donate most all of his tools and V8 parts to the Early Ford V8 Foundation (over $20K worth). These tools and parts will be available for purchase at the Fall Swap Meet at the museum in Auburn, IN this coming week. Thank you George!

Pat

[34fordy]

I wish I could have known George. Evidently he was a real music lover listening to Ford flathead V8s and Triumph twins! Both the sweetest sounds.