George DeGaetano

Andrè Zammit writes:

The large number of people who braved the wintry weather and crowded the Tal-Ibraġ church for George’s funeral was proof enough of the very regard in which he was held by all who, at one time or another, came in touch with him and were privileged to know him.

Fr Gordon Refalo’s funeral oration gave a very good account of George’s personality and lovable traits of character. It almost made George come to life again.

I knew George from our University days. Though he was one course ahead of me, our common interest in the Literary and Debating Society and in the Sundial partly bridged the age gap. Everyone would crowd around to hear George’ latest quip.

His humour was fresh and spontaneous and he was great at repartee.

Once we attended a poetry reading session at the British Institute, as it was then called. Seven of us turned up. Five, including old stalwarts Emmanuel Agius and Donald Sultana, were detailed to read and George and I did the listening. At one point, George nudged me and whispered that he had to go. He stood up and said: “Mr Chairman, I am afraid 50 per cent of your audience is leaving.” I had to soldier on as I had become 100 per cent!

To his wife, children and grandchildren and his brothers Joe and Vincent, I offer my deepest condolences.