John A. George, Ph.D.: 1934-2026

John A. George, Ph.D.: 1934-2026

John A. George, Ph.D. (PC '55, Grad ED '67), a longtime professor of aerospace engineering and physics, died March 18, 2026. He was 91 years old.

George dedicated more than 60 years to teaching at Parks College of Engineering, Aviation and Technology, one of the longest tenures in Saint Louis University history. He began his teaching career at Parks College in 1959 and retired in 2000, remaining associated with the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering in the School of Science and Engineering as a professor emeritus for another 25 years.

George graduated with a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering from Parks College in 1955. As an undergraduate student, he was involved in the Phi Alpha Chi fraternity, the Student Government Association, the Society of Automotive Engineering, the Arnold Air Society and other campus activities. He earned a doctorate in physics from SLU in 1967.

"For 60 years, John gave of himself fully as a teacher, mentor and leader in aerospace engineering," said Gregory Triplett Jr., Ph.D., dean of the School of Science and Engineering. "His contributions helped shape not only a program but also generations of students and professionals who will carry his influence with them for years to come. It is clear that John's legacy lives on, not only in the strength of the aerospace engineering program at SLU, but in the countless people whose lives were changed by knowing him."

George's distinguished career was recognized in 1984 with the University's highest teaching award, the Nancy McNair Ring Award, and in 2002 with the Parks College of Engineering, Aviation and Technology Alumni Merit Award. He received the Lindbergh Award from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, St. Louis Section, in 2013 for his work applying aerospace technology to improve the quality of human life.

Behind the scenes, George wanted to ensure he was giving back to Parks College and supporting his students in whatever ways he could, said SLU Development Director Katia Goodman. In 2022, he established an anonymous scholarship to provide financial assistance to undergraduate students majoring in aerospace engineering.

"Dr. George was intentional about remaining anonymous as a donor, never wanting to know who the scholarship recipients were because he didn't want that knowledge to impact his teaching relationships," Goodman said. He also didn't attend SLU's annual Scholarship Dinner, so he could remain anonymous."

Steve Magoc (PC '87, Grad CSB '93), professor and department chair of aviation science at Saint Louis University, greatly admired George's professionalism.

"It was a privilege to know and work with Dr. John George," Magoc said. "Although we did not teach in the same academic department, I did come to know him over the years. He was the consummate professional, both in and out of the classroom. He told me several times to call him John, but I personally had too much respect for him to do that. He will always be Dr. George to me."

Many alumni expressed sadness and deep appreciation for George's impact on their studies and careers on social media.

Former colleague, Sridhar Condoor, Ph.D., professor of aerospace and mechanical engineering, reflected on George's commitment to his students.

"John was a great friend with a sunny disposition. He was a legend of Parks College - passionate about teaching and shaping undergraduate students with a dedication that showed in everything he did. I always remember how he insisted on finishing whatever he started, even when things were difficult. As department chair for more than 25 years, his life revolved around Parks College. He may have looked like a disciplinarian, but he had a very kind heart. Students loved him, and to this day, alumni still ask how he's doing and remember the time they spent with him inside and outside the classroom. I'll always remember his smile, enjoying a cigar after class."

George's daughter, Marie George (PC '85), highlighted what her father's illustrious career as a teacher and an engineer meant to him.

"My father's proudest professional role was being a professor and impacting students. It looks like he did it well," she said.

George was predeceased by his wife of over 60 years, Harriet George (née Operle), and son, Angelo George (Janet). He is survived by his children, Martin (Shelly) George and Marie (Ralph Stinebrook) George; grandchildren, Nick (Reneta), Sierra (Mike), Sam (Macee), John, Jake, Brandon, Alex, Olivia, Kaity (Elyssa), Krystina, Kelly and Kerry; and seven great-grandchildren.

Visitation is from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 29, at Kutis Affton Chapel at 10151 Gravois Road, 63123. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Stray Rescue of St. Louis, 2320 Pine Street, 63103.