George Amaro

George Luis Amaro died on April 29, 2008 in Chico after a long, courageous battle with illness. His family was  at his side.  He was born on April 11th, 1927 in Ferndale, CA.  He was the son of John and Marie Amaro, immigrants from the Azores island of Terciera.

In 1944 during World War II he was attending Ferndale Union High School when he enlisted in the US Navy and served on the battleship USS Massachusetts.  He was a gunners mate 1st class and was discharged on February 10th,1946.  He was always proud of this service to his county.  He returned to the family dairy in Ferndale and later relocated to Willows with his family to continue dairy farming in 1947.   It was in Willows where he married Dolores Leonardo in 1956 one of the last couples to be married in the old Catholic Church downtown.  George continued dairy farming for many years until he branched out into rice farming in the early ‘70’s.  During this time he also ran a successful motorcycle shop, G & D Cycle.  During the 70’s he also worked for the Glenn County Road Department as a mechanic/welder.  He also worked for a time for Jerry Southam Farming in Butte City. George continued rice farming until his “retirement “ though he never really retired enjoying his involvement in farming until just last year.

George was dedicated to his wife Dolores for 51 years.  He was a loving father and involved with his 14 grandchildren.  He loved his family most and was dearly loved by all his family including all his nieces and nephews who would often seek out their Uncle George.  He charmed us all and we felt lucky to be a part of his life!

Other than family his life-long passion was motorcycling.  He was considered by some to be the “Godfather of Motorcycling” in Willows.  His passion for this fine sport influenced so many.  His involvement and expertise will be sorely missed.  Anyone sharing his passion for motorcycles and choosing to attend his services are encouraged to ride their motorcycle to the service.  Secured parking will be available.

George was a member of the Willows Knights of Columbus, Willows Pheasant Association, Honorary member of the St. Monica’s  Y.L.I. and devoted parishioner of Saint Monica’s Catholic Church.  Other memberships include the American Motorcyclists Association (AMA), the Benevolent Portuguese Brotherhood and Touring Club, and founding member of the Willows Scramblers.

George is survived by his loving wife Dolores, daughter Corey and Yann Amaro-Rolland-Benis of St. Zacharie, France, sons Marty and Suzy Amaro of Chico, Mathew and Shelley Amaro, Mark and Diane Amaro, Zane and Joy Amaro all of Willows.  He will be sorely missed by his adoring grandchildren; Chelsea and Sacha Rolland- Benis, Patti, Andy, and Jack Amaro, Sam, Joe and Marie Amaro, Gina, Maci, George, and Kate Amaro, and Molly and Warren Amaro.  Survived also by sisters Ann Corriea and Sara Cuccia and numerous nieces and nephews.  Preceded in death by brothers John Amaro and Daniel Amaro and sisters Marie Souza and Velma Belforte.

The family wishes to thank all those who sent up prayers for George and his family.  We would also like to thank his doctors: Dr. John Howard and Dr. Gerard Valcarenghi and all the devoted nurses  at Enloe Hospital who cared for George during his long illness.

Rosary service will be Sunday, May 4th at 8:00 pm at St. Monica’s Catholic Church in Willows.  A funeral mass will be held Monday May 5th at 10:00 am with graveside services immediately following. A lunch reception will follow at St. Monica’s Parish Hall.  All are welcome to attend.

Arrangements under the direction of F.D. Sweet and Son in Willows.  In lieu of flowers please send donations to:  Willows Knights of Columbus #2054, 1129 West Wood Street, Willows,CA 95988.