George Miskey

George Miskey passed away on July 1, 2018 in Chico, CA. He was 88 years old. George was born on September 18, 1929, in Papa, Hungary. He graduated from a Hungarian Fine Woodworking Academy and became a Master Woodworker, later teaching at his Alma Mater. He was born during politically difficult times and at the age of 15 was conscripted into the German Army as an unpaid dock worker and later into the Soviet Military where he was a Staff Sergeant. He eventually left Hungary during the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 and never looked back. George immigrated to the US, arriving in New Jersey and then moving to Los Angeles a few days later. He worked as a private Master Woodworker, employed by some of Hollywood's movie royalty including Glenn Ford and Dinah Shore. He specialized in roll-top desks and decorative inlay covers in the tradition of Ludwig Kozma. George was also a self-taught musician, specializing in the accordion. He started a band in Los Angeles and played in various venues until meeting and marrying Lillian in 1960 and eventually moving to Paradise, California to be closer to Lillian's relatives. He opened his own cabinet shop on the corner of Pearson & Clark Rd. He became known among the local contractors for his finely crafted custom furniture. The family and his shop moved to Chico in the 70's where he continued to make custom cabinets and other furniture until finally retiring in 2001. He played in the local area with yet another band, "Dr. Dale Ritter's Kat's 'n' Jammers", for over 30 years. He was familiar with all of the great Hungarian classics and held a deep love for his native countries' musical tradition. He owned a custom accordion made in Hungry that was his musical pride and joy. His family were often present when he played over the years, which eventually included his grandchildren. He would meet every Friday at Cozy Diner with friends and would often volunteer to play his accordion at various nursing homes and senior centers. Lillian was the love of his life and they were married for 47 years before her passing. She taught the 3rd grade in Paradise before becoming a full time Mom to her two boys. George could boast of never having had an argument during his marriage. He treasured his two sons and shared with them his furniture making skills. He also had a love of the Native American Culture and People. He and his son Tom shared a love of Native American Stamp collecting and traveled together to many of the tribe communities across the United States. He was always proud of the accomplishments of his family which included his son Eric's business and Tom's artistic designs of Native American and wildlife stamps. George is survived by his two sons, Tom and Eric, his daughter in-law Jumana, and his two grandkids George Jr and Ramez Miskey. A Memorial Lunch is planned for Saturday July 21, 2018 in the private dining room at Cozy Diner, 1695 Mangrove Ave, Chico CA between 2-4 pm to celebrate George's Life. All are welcome and should R.S.V.P. Cozy Diner.