George H. Cermak, Jr

George Henry Cermak, Jr., born in Martins Ferry, Ohio, in 1948, passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, at his home in Viera, Florida, on September 28, 2024, from natural causes. George lived a life full of adventure, serving as an Army Green Beret for 22 years, including in the 1st, 5th, and 10th Group Special Forces. He reached the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3. His military service took him around the world, and he eventually settled with his family in Viera in 1993, where he resided until his passing.

George was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Alison Cermak (nee Matthews), his son Matthew Anthony Cermak (Hailey), daughters Carly Anna Foster (George) and Wendi Cermak, and grandchildren Alora, Adira, and another grandson on the way, as well as chihuahuas Ranger, Tonto, and Peanut. He is also survived by extended family in Ohio and England, and his chosen family of friends at home and abroad. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Jim and Lenny, as well as his beloved dogs throughout his lifetime, Chico, Mia, Leo, Boo Boo, Zulu, Enu, and Runaway, and cats Joey, Miles, and Smokey. He was known to bring home injured and wild animals and care for them, much to the delight of his children, as well as many nick nacks, much to the consternation of his wife. 

Never one to rest on his laurels, George went back to school and earned his electrical engineering degree at the age of 50. After retiring from the military, George continued to serve his community in various roles before joining the DEA, where he worked to stem the tide of deadly narcotics into our communities. Variably known as "Crazy George” and “Gorgeous George,” he was a man who could do anything, and his generous and wild heart left an indelible mark on all who knew him, his family and friends across the world. He could be seen blazing through the streets of Brevard County on one of his motorcycles or governing the snack shop at his office on Patrick Air Force Base. After retirement, he continued to ride and turned his attention to serving the VFW Post 8191 and being dragged all over the world with his wife, this time for pleasure instead of a soldier’s work. 

Friends and family will be received at Beckman Williamson Funeral Home, 5400 Village Drive, Rockledge, Florida, on Friday, October 11, from 10 to 11 a.m., with a celebration of life service to follow at 11 a.m. Burial will take place at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, where George will receive the proper soldier’s send-off he deserves. There will be a raucous reception to follow at the VFW (where we fully expect to sing the Lion Sleeps Tonight in unison). 

In lieu of flowers, George would love for you to adopt a forever pet from your local rescue or shelter and name it after him, or donate to the humane society.