July 19, 1930 – October 20, 2020
George R. Piper was received into the arms of his heavenly father on October 20, 2020.
George is survived by his daughter, Debra Shirley and husband Paul; son, Gregory Piper; and
beloved grandchildren, Kara Shirley and husband Mark Shumski and Matthew Shirley and wife
Meghan, great grandchildren Lena and John. He is predeceased by his loving wife of 67 years
Elaine “Mitzi” Piper, brother, William Piper and sister Jane Johnston and his parents, Effie
(McConnaughey) and George Piper, Sr.
George served in the Korean War as a Staff Sergeant stationed in Germany. He retired from
Plum Machinery and worked at several structural steel plants in management. During his
employment he was instrumental in supervising the erection of the steel structures at the Galleria
of Pittsburgh Mills Mall.
George was a dedicated member of the Apollo Mason Lodge for over 65 years, a member of the
Shriners’ Consistory, Apollo Elks, and Saltsburg Sportsman Club. In addition, George was a
devout member and elder of the Saltsburg Presbyterian Church. With a passion for aviation, he
had a private pilot license and enjoyed flying, especially over the beaches of Marco Island
Florida.
George was a loving and devoted husband and a caring father and grandfather who dedicated his
life to his family. George’s integrity and principles set a high standard for the entire family to
follow. His strong moral values and honesty earned him the respect and admiration of all who
met him both in his professional and personal life. George was deeply loved by his family and
will be missed by all.
Due to public health concerns with COVID-19 all visitations and services are private
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