George J. Bestvina

Bestvina, George J. “Henry”, “Herky”, 93, Cairnbrook, died peacefully at home on January 19, 2024 surrounded by his three daughters. Born on April 6, 1930 in his home in Cairnbrook. He was the son of Paul and Aloysia Bestvina. Preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of 52 years Joan; and multiple siblings Mike (Bus), Margaret, Paul, Ann, Betty, Veronica, Vince, and infant sister Mary. Survived by children Susan, Louise (Tom), Connie (Mike); sister Joann (VA); brother John (NV); sister-in-law Barbara Bestvina (OH); brother-in-law Boyce Ross (Central City); step daughter Kathy Fox (John); multiple nieces and nephews, especially Peter, George (Michelle) and Tom Spinelli, who he loved and treated like his own; great nieces and nephews and godchildren. George had many special friends who felt more like family to him - his special “Breakfast Club” friends who would meet every Sunday after Mass and he so enjoyed the good food and great company. His other dear friends included the Kovaks, Lanes, Mulcahys, Arlinda and Patrick Metz, Dean Barker, and Laura & Don Beltz. George was a 1948 graduate of Shade High School where he excelled both academically and athletically. Even though he had a small frame he was a member of the basketball and football teams, but his love for baseball is where he would thrive. Upon graduation, in 1950, he joined the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Panama and worked as a surveyor. This service to our country was one of his proudest accomplishments. After returning home from his time in the military George would begin his career in the coal mine. He began as a miner and would continue his pursuit for his bossing papers and finished his career as a Federal Mine Inspector for MSHA. He loved his career and enjoyed the camaraderie between his fellow colleagues throughout the years. Growing up George was very proud of his Slovak heritage, his family and his upbringing. As a young man he was taught by his father and became a skilled carpenter and a “handy man” of many trades. He took pride in all he was able to do on his own, especially the home improvements made in his childhood home. Years ago George also served as a member of the Shade-Central City School Board, also coached the eighth grade boys basketball team to a championship season. His passion for baseball gave him an opportunity to try out for the minor league but was told that he was slightly too old to make the team. In 2010 he was inducted into the Somerset Baseball Hall of Fame! His love for trout fishing was a passion that he shared with many. His knowledge of every trout stream in the multiple counties could be surpassed by none! His ability to pick 100+ night crawlers in 15 minutes was a talent in itself! George was also an accomplished billiard player and was a member of many teams and leagues well into his 80’s. He was 87 years old when he won his last tournament in Central City. His other hobbies included bowling, dancing, and his love for old time music. He was also very diligent in maintaining his physical activity and worked out 2-3 times a week with his Vantage Physical Therapy team. He had a love for animals throughout his life but was so blessed to have time to spend with Louise and Tom’s dogs, and his special little dogs Daisy and Sandy. A lifetime member of St. John’s (Our Lady Queen of Angels Parish), George was a devoted Catholic. His faith and his daily rosary devotions were very important to his life. He was a wonderful father and was known as “everyone’s favorite uncle!” He will always be known as Uncle Honey to the Spinelli girls and his special buddy, Noah, who was his great great nephew. He was an amazing friend and was always available to help no matter the situation. His generous and giving heart was one of his greatest attributes. He enjoyed great conversation and fellowship with all of his neighbors and friends in Cairnbrook and Central City. His love and pride for his family, especially his three daughters was undeniable! The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Windber Hospice for their compassionate and loving care to him and his family during his time at home. Donations to Windber Hospice are welcomed and encouraged. Friends will be received from 2-8 p.m. Wednesday at the Mulcahy Funeral Home. Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. Thursday at Our Lady Queen of Angels Chapel (St. John the Baptist) Father Aron Maghsoudi, Celebrant. Committal McGregor Cemetery. Graveside Military Rites by Central City VFW Post.

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