Theodore D. George

THEODORE D. GEORGE beloved elder statesman of the S’Klallam and Suquamish Tribes passed peacefully from his Poulsbo home to his heavenly home, May 13, 2021. He was 92.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Karlene, his older brother Robert and his children: Kevin George, Kyle (Rose)George, Lisa (Tom) Brant, Randy (Shawna)George, Wayne (Joleen)George, JoeGeorge, Matt (Patty)Ho|mes, Andy Holmes. He was ”Grandpa Ted" to 19 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren including extended family. He was an "Elder” to numerous nephews and nieces.
Ted was a 1947 graduate of North Kitsap High School and 1951 graduate of Western Washington ‘ University with advanced classes at the University of Washington. Ted had an illustrious career as an educator that took him from being a teacher at Wolfle (now Gordon) Elementary to Administrator of Indian Education for North Kitsap School District to be the first director of Native American Studies at the University of Washington. He helped organize the Small Tribes of Western Washington (S.T.T.O.W) Later, he was appointed by the U.S. Commissioner of the Bureau of Indian Affairs to work with national tribal leaders charged with improving Indian education. He later chaired this group. His testimony before the Senate was instrumental in eliminating Indian boarding schools. Locally during this time, Ted also served as S’Klallam Tribal business manager. ‘
In 1973, Ted was appointed by President Nixon— and subsequently by President Ford— to serve on the National Advisory Council On Indian Education (NAClE} which he later chaired. During this time, his "day job" was as Regional Program Director for the Administration for Native Americans (ANA), Region X which included 8 western states, and was based in Seattle (he refused to move to WA. DC).
In 1991 at age 63, he retired from ANA and professional life to concentrate on traveling and fishing, but tribal education and social justice issues were never put aside. He was a member of six S’Klallam committees and served as a tribal representative on the Hood Canal Coordinating Council for environmental concerns.
Ted's Christian Faith was important to him and he and Karlene attended the Anglican Church of St. Charles in Central Valley as well as St. Paul's Port Gamble. Well into his 80's, Ted worked to help form the Olalla Neighbors group, a local organization seeking to combat racism and deal with the desecration of Chief Sealth’s grave, the return of the Old Man House site, and preservation of the graving area near Port Angeles.
The Kitsap County Human Rights Council honored Ted for his efforts to unite people of goodwill and combat the evil of racism. The Kitsap Historical Society designated the George Family as a Heritage Family in 2017. The Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe established the Ted George Legacy Award in 2018.
The S’Klallam/Suquamish family of Ted George is proud of his accomplishments, but will forever remember him as a wise, compassionate and caring man who loved us all.
A Celebration of life for Ted George will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, June 11, 2021, at the Kiana Lodge with parking and shuttle service offered from the Clearwater Casino. Services will also be live-streamed through the Cook Family Funeral Home Facebook Page.

Please follow the link just below to be directed to our Facebook page and watch for the post for Ted.



My Grandpa♡
An educator, a leader, a storyteller, an advocate, an activist, a warrior, a change maker, a Husband, a Brother, an Uncle, Father, Grandfather, and Great Grandfather. Grandpa Ted lived a life of purpose. A life led by his heart, a heart filled with compassion and the ability to make a positive difference in so many lives. Always kind. Always genuine. He had a soft but firm handshake, one that made you feel secure but you still knew he meant business. Hugs that made you feel warm and safe and a smile and laugh that could fill a room even after he's left it. He didn't let his struggles or bad experiences keep him down, he used everything he knew as a lesson and made sure to teach everyone he could. He was a man of God and believed in the power of prayer and love. Always looking on bright side and never missed an opportunity to give a compliment. Always reminding me I was beautiful and tough (like my mom). He raised his children and loved his Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. He left no stone unturned and has earned his right to rest. As hard as it is to know I'll never get to see you again, I know your heart was full and tired...I love you, Grandpa. May your journey into the lights be peaceful and painless.🦅


Arrangements are entrusted to the Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, Wa.