1923 - 2009

A unique and talented man, George Kosanovic, formerly of Corvallis, died peacefully in his home in Washington state on April 27, with family by his side. George briefly taught art at Oregon State University, making lifelong friendships with a generation of brilliant Corvallis artists.

Born in Aliquippa, Pa., in 1923, George was the fifth of eight children to immigrant Serbian parents, Branko and Savka. At an early age, his natural ability for drawing and painting as well as his innate appreciation for music was recognized and encouraged.

George proudly served his country in World War II as a volunteer in the United States Marine Corps. He later honed his artistic skills and practiced his craft while earning a bachelor's degree in art from Edinboro University in northwestern Pennsylvania and a master's degree from the California College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland, Calif.

In 1949, George married Wilma, his college beloved, and they moved to Corvallis. It was at this time, while teaching at OSU, that George's creative expressions revealed his experience with the rugged coastline and wonderful natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest which he loved. In 1952, George and Wilma moved to the Seattle area, where he was employed by Boeing Aircraft as a tooling engineer, bringing his imagination to work in the designing of aircraft wings.

Becoming a father to daughters Ann and Paula in 1957 and 1958 brought George great joy and happiness. He treasured fatherhood and was proud of the successful adults that his children had become.

George subcontracted with Alitalia Airlines in 1979, spending three years working and living near Naples, Italy, where he learned the Italian language, warmly embraced the people and relished the local cuisine. George traveled extensively with Wilma by his side to many international sites that also served as a backdrop for his watercolor paintings.

Although officially retired in 1985, George continued to work as a consultant for Boeing Aircraft for many years while teaching evening art classes at Highline College.

George was a prolific painter, an inventive printmaker, and he loved carving in the Pacific Northwest Native manner. His award-winning work of masks, paintings and carved boxes can be found in museums and private collections in both the United States and abroad. Each time his paintings are viewed, one will see the world through his clear, sparkling eyes.

George was also was a knitter extraordinaire, teacher, gardener, bread maker, fisherman, pianist, writer of icons and lover of classical music. George possessed a deep and expansive memory and he will be fondly remembered for his passion and generous disposition.

George is survived by his wife, Wilma; daughters Ann and Paula, with son-in-laws Kevin and Dave; grandchildren Amanda, Branko, and Aleksander; mother-in-law, Christina Boyle; sisters Shoy and Tala; sisters-in-law Elizabeth and Eloise; and numerous nieces and nephews to include identical triplets, Gerry, Jim and Joe, who lovingly considered George an inspirational surrogate father.

His parents, sister Ann, and brothers Edward, Joseph, Mitchell and Robert preceded George in death.

The family suggests donations to LUNGevity Foundation (info@lungevity.org) or the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (multiplemyeloma.org). In lieu of a funeral or memorial service, George encourages everyone to go paint.