Georges E. Kassas

In Loving Memory of Georges Kassas

With hearts full of sorrow yet gratitude for his life, we announce the passing of Georges Elias Kassas, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant of God, who entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, February 12th. His journey on this earth was one of unwavering faith, resilience, and love, leaving behind a legacy of strength and devotion that will continue to guide those who knew him.

Born in Bmariam, Lebanon, in 1934, to Elias Kassas and Eugine Yameen, Georges grew up surrounded by family and the deep-rooted traditions of his Maronite Catholic faith. From a young age, he was instilled with the values of hard work, discipline, and perseverance—virtues that shaped every aspect of his life. He developed a passion for fitness and wrestling, which he pursued enthusiastically into his twenties.

Georges began his career at Medco Petroleum Company in Dawra, Beirut, starting humbly as a doorman. Through determination and a strong work ethic, he advanced to become a factory manager and foreman. It was during this time that God blessed him with the love of his life, Haifa Baroud, with whom he built a home filled with faith and love. Together, they raised five children: Amal, Nawal, Elie, Robert, and Simon, instilling in them the importance of faith, family, and service to others.

Life’s trials tested Georges' faith, none greater than the tragic loss of his beloved son, Elie, during the Lebanese Civil War. Seeking safety and a fresh start, Georges moved his family to New Jersey in the mid-1980s. Though he arrived in a foreign land without knowing English, his resilience never wavered. He took on various jobs, including driving delivery trucks and taxis, even creating his own maps of the city in Arabic. Eventually, he secured a position as a boiler technician at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, where he worked diligently, never missing a day until his well-earned retirement.

Always driven to provide for his family, Georges also invested in a prime rib restaurant in Reading, Pennsylvania. Under the family's stewardship, it evolved into The Sahara, a beloved Lebanese restaurant, with each family member dedicating their time and talents to its success. Reading became their home, a place filled with warmth, tradition, and family bonds.

After retirement, Georges and Haifa moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where they enjoyed peaceful years together under the warmth of the sun. After Haifa’s passing, he returned to New Jersey, where he lived with his daughter Nawal, embraced by the love and care of his children and grandchildren. He found joy in life’s simple blessings—driving through town, reminiscing about his past, and staying deeply connected to his Lebanese roots. A man of tradition, he never missed his daily lottery ticket, found comfort in Western and Kung Fu movies, and remained ever-engaged with news and politics from his homeland.

Georges is survived by his beloved children: Amal and her husband Joseph El-Reyes, Nawal and her husband Nassif Maroun, Robert and his wife Diana, and Simon and his wife PollyJo. He was predeceased by his son, Elie, and his wife, Haifa. He is also survived by his siblings in Lebanon: Yousef and his wife Therese Kassas, Badih and his wife Rajah Kassas, and Mariam and her husband Saleem Baroud. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Boutros Kassas and Antoine Kassas. Georges leaves behind 13 cherished grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews who will carry forward his legacy.

A man deeply respected and loved by all who knew him, Georges Kassas lived a life rooted in faith, integrity, and sacrifice. His unwavering devotion to his family and his trust in God's divine plan will forever be an inspiration to those he leaves behind.

May Christ, the Good Shepherd, lead him into eternal rest, and may he rejoice in the presence of the Lord forever.

A Visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, February 17th, from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm, at St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Church, 526 Easton Avenue, Somerset.  A Funeral Mass of the Resurrection will be on Tuesday, 10:00 am at St. Sharbel Church.  Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Piscataway. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Georges name to St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Church. 

Arrangements are by The Crabiel Home for Funerals, 170 N Main St.-at Riva Avenue, Milltown, NJ 08850. You may sign the online condolence “guestbook” at www.crabiel.com