George William Steffen died early Saturday, Jan. 7, 2006, after suffering a massive stroke.

His family (wife Maryam, and sons Alex, Joseph, Benyamin, and Eli) was with him as he died.

A small burial service was Sunday at Vashon Cemetery.

For George, teaching was a way of life. His years as a teacher at Foss High School in Tacoma brought him great joy, as did his involvement in various Vashon activities, from birding to the food bank to intergenerational communication.

A memorial celebration is planned on Vashon in mid-February.

The next youth-adult dialogue on Feb. 7 will honor Mr. Steffen’s love of life and commitment to the well-being of all people.