In Loving Memory of George Laborada

George Laborada, 83, a resident of Leavenworth, KS, passed away on 2/22/22 at 11:11 a.m. at North Kansas City Hospital. Angels no doubt in presence, considering the exact timing of his transition, accompanying him to his Heavenly home.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 11, at Davis Funeral Chapel in Leavenworth, KS, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m with military honors at 3:30 p.m. under the direction of Davis Funeral Chapel.

George was the youngest of thirteen children born on Valentine's Day, 1939. Assuredly born with a heart of gold as many can attest to. George was always ready to share a quick smile, an infectious laugh that left one feeling better spending even the shortest amount of time with him. His love for others and compassion for those less fortunate could also be seen in his fondness for stray cats; a sign of humanity that came naturally to him.

The son of Mateo Vellarosa-Laborada and Frances Kikue Namba, George was born and raised in Hilo, HI. He voluntarily joined the Army at 18 years old, graduated Airborne, served overseas including Iran and Turkey with service in the Vietnam War. He proudly served his country in his Army career for 27 years, retired as SGM to Leavenworth, KS in 1984. Soon after, he continued serving for an additional 23 years as a civilian servant, Chief of Training, Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security at Fort Leavenworth, KS. Having served his country for 50 years, he retired in 2007. He enjoyed exploring the local casinos and spending more time engaged with his family at home.

George earned many Decorations, Medals, Badges, Citations and Campaign Ribbons including The National Defense Service Medal; Joint Service Commendation Medal (1 OLC); Vietnam Service Metal; Vietnam Campaign Medal; Army Commendation Medal (1 OLC); Vietnam Gallantry of Cross Medal with Palm Unit Citation; Meritorious Unit Commendation, Parachute Badge; Overseas Service Bars; Meritorious Service Medal; Good Conduct Medal (7 ^th Awd); Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon (2). On behalf of a grateful nation, we honor and thank George and his family for their sacrifice and service, too. With gratitude, we thank George for his love of country, family, and the freedoms he helped preserve.

George is preceded in death by his parents, twelve siblings, and one great- grandson, Quentin Laborada. Married in 1964, he is survived by his loving wife, Taji Laborada. Daughter, Mary Laborada of Kansas City, MO. A son, Dennis Laborada of Las Vegas, NV. Daughter Deborah Laborada Forde (Kevin) of Kansas City, MO. Twin- grandchildren, Omid Laborada and Ellie Laborada of Kansas City, MO. One great-granddaughter, Ava Laborada of Kansas City, MO and Isaiah Forde, grandson by marriage, of Arlington, TX.

George's greatest joy was spending time with his family and the great memories created and adventures when they were all together. To love George and to be loved by him was a pleasure and a gift. If considered an honorary family member, you were equally blessed and felt treasured! By faith, George, we believe you have just gone on before us. No goodbyes!

The family would like to thank the extraordinary staff of Cardiac CICU at North Kansas City Hospital, who so caringly assisted with our dad's care; intervening expeditiously at a critical time allowed him to survive a few days longer. We hope our simple words convey an attempt for our continual gratitude for the time we had the last few hours in which we could communicate, as we understand so many people unfortunately, are not offered the benefit of that opportunity.

See you later, Dad!

JOHN 14:3