George Henry Ehle, 89, of West Hartford, passed away peacefully November 22, 2012, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in New Britain on March 10, 1923, the son of Edward Herman and Mary (Frederick) Ehle.
George is survived by his devoted children, son and daughter-in-law Gary and Amy Ehle of West Hartford, daughter and son-in-law Diane and David Desmarais of Bristol, and daughter and son-in-law Nancy and David Bellis of Mount Airy, NC. He also leaves his beloved grandchildren, Brian, Shannon, Caitlin, and Derek Ehle; Matthew, Peter, and Katie Desmarais; Michael, Daniel, and Rebecca Ober; and great-grandchildren Michael and Ella Desmarais, Hannah and Christopher Ober, and Aela Desmarais.
George is also survived by his brothers Edward, Richard and Walter, and their wives, the Brasile family, the Christy family, Ray and Carol D'Arche, and other special extended family and friends.
Besides his parents, George was predeceased by his loving wife of 61 years, Norma (D'Arche) Ehle.
George served honorably with the Merchant Marines during World War II, including tours aboard hospital and supply ships that traveled to Italy, North Africa, New Guinea, and the Philippines.
George was a proud member for 36 years of the West Hartford Fire Department, serving for many years as a Lieutenant Mechanic until his retirement in 1988. He never missed an opportunity to march with his fellow firefighters in the West Hartford Memorial Day parades.
Most importantly, George was a loving and devoted father and grandfather whose greatest happiness came from time spent with his family. He especially enjoyed sharing family trips and activities such as playing cards, fishing, and playing songs on his harmonica. He was also an avid motorcyclist and horseshoe player.
All those who knew George can attest to his generous, helpful and friendly spirit. He always found great enjoyment in doing for others, in ways big and small, never expecting recognition for his acts of kindness. His family knows he was the best possible father, grandfather and role model they could've asked for.
George's family wishes to express their sincere appreciation for the attentive, devoted care that he received from his social worker and other staff, nurses and CNA's on Unit 5N at Aurora Senior Living of New Britain. They are special caregivers who tended well to him and his family.
Calling hours are Saturday from 3-6 p.m. at Sheehan Hilborn Breen Funeral Home, 1084 New Britain Ave., West Hartford, followed by a 6 p.m. Funeral Service. His burial is private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the "Shepard Meadows Horses for Heroes" program for wounded veterans, c/o Shepard Meadows Therapeutic Center, P.O. Box 2826, Bristol, CT 06011-2826, or the charitable organization of the donor's preference.

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