Former Friendly House Board of Director Dies

George Ayik, 85, of Worcester, died Tuesday, May 29 in his home.

George is survived by his wife of 47 years Joyce C (Plouffe) Ayik; four children, Gary G. Ayik and his companion Darlene Anderson of Orange City FL, Michelle A. Fernald and her husband Edward of Sterling, Jason J. Ayik and his wife Maria of Jefferson, and Michael M. Ayik of Worcester; seven grandchildren, Jason C., Joshua M., Madison M., Andi E., and Ryan W. Ayik, Tyler J. and Jacob G. Robinette; two brothers, Baheege Ayik of , Henry Ayik and his wife Eleanor of Worcester; four sisters, Lynne Steeves and Najala Lindquist both of Worcester, Victoria Bicknell and Adele Svendsen both of Shrewsbury; Many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. A brother, Norman Ayik predeceased him.

George was born in Worcester, a son of Salim and Mary (Haddad) Ayik. He attended Commerce High School, joined the U.S. Navy to serve his country during World War II aboard the aircraft carrier, U.S.S. Franklin D. Roosevelt.

After the war he returned to his native Worcester and has lived here ever since.
George owned and operated A-1 T.V. & Antenna Service for more than 40 years before retiring. After retirement he found enjoyment assisting at Davidian Farms in Northborough.

George served on the board of directors for the Friendly House in Worcester many years. He was a member of St George Orthodox Cathedral and its men’s club, The Southern Massachusetts Police Association, the Worcester County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, and a many year member of the Massachusetts Boxing Commission. He was also an Honorary Kentucky Colonel.

George was very much a family man. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and vacationing in Anguilla with his nephew Michael.

Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Thursday, May 31 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St. A funeral service will be celebrated Friday, June 1 at noon in the funeral home. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Friendly House, 36 Wall St. Worcester 01604.