George J. Gitas' Obituary
George J. Gitas, age 80, of Bethel Park, passed away on Sunday, August 4, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. George was born in Donora, PA, on December 4, 1943, the son of the late James and Elena (Padovani) Gitas.
A proud graduate of Bel Mar High School, George went on to honorably serve in the United States Navy for four years. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to his roots in Pennsylvania, and he embarked on a fulfilling career with the Clairton Police Department. George's passion for service led him to the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.
Upon retiring from the police force as a decorated Captain, he remained an active figure in the community and served on the Clairton City Council, where his wisdom and experience were invaluable assets. George continued to serve the public as the Movement Director for the Pittsburgh Regional Transit.
Away from his professional life, George was a man of the outdoors. He found solace and joy in fishing, hunting, farming and gardening. He also enjoyed cooking, especially homemade bread. George's love for the outdoors extended to his love for boating, where he shared unforgettable moments with family and friends on the water.
George's journey through life was marked by dedication, service, and an abiding love for his family. He was a wonderful and dedicated husband, father, Pap, uncle and friend, finding his greatest joys from the moments spent with his loved ones. George will be deeply missed by all those who had the honor of knowing him.
George was the loving husband of Wendy (Rush) Gitas, the dedicated father to James (Luna) Gitas, Rachel (Clare) Gitas, and Kevin (Melissa) Voytko; and the cherished Pap to Ellise Gitas and Geno Gitas and his fiancée, Darima. George also leaves his sister, Lanie Gitas; aunt Fay Brounce; sister and brothers-in-law, Jill (Richard) Grusofsky, Daniel Rush, and Gregg Rush; Nieces, Elaine, Kimberly, Amanda, Jennifer, Samantha, Charli, Lori, Holly, Madelyn, Harper, Layla, Carman and Rachel; Nephews, Robert, Phillip, Zachary, Jason, Luke, Aaron, Joshua, Evan, Michael, Reid and Carter; his beloved furry companion Trixie; and many extended family members and friends.
In addition to his parents, George was preceded in death by his sisters, Miriam Gitas and Antoinette “Sally” Sposato; brothers-in-law, John Sposato and Bruce Rush and his nephew, John “J.J.” Sposato.
Relatives and friends are invited to join with the family for visitation on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 2:00 – 4:00 pm and 6:00 – 8:00 pm and on Friday, August 9, 2024 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, 301 Curry Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236. A blessing service will be held in the funeral home’s chapel on Friday at 12:00 pm. Burial with military honors will follow at Jefferson Memorial Park.
The family requests memorial contributions in memory of George may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
To leave online condolences please visit www.jeffersonmemorial.com
What’s your fondest memory of George?
What’s a lesson you learned from George?
Share a story where George's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with George you’ll never forget.
How did George make you smile?