George Oliver Wilson

George Oliver Wilson died on June 2nd, 2022, at 23 months old at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Oliver was born in Lansing, Michigan on July 1st, 2020, to parents George and Anna Wilson. Oliver was born with an ultra rare genetic disorder called NGLY1 Deficiency. While this disorder presented physical and cognitive challenges for Oliver, he fought through his challenges with strength and courage, always with a smile on his face. He was a joyful, active boy who refused to let his limitations stop him from reaching goals and making connections with those around him.

While Oliver was unable to communicate verbally, he quickly learned how to use his eyes, smile, and attitude to share his feelings and love for others. He loved being home with his family, playing with his big sister and chasing his dog, Bo. He found great joy in playing with his special piano and his favorite toys that he could spin and interact with. He was always recognized for his beautiful sandy blonde hair, long eyelashes, and precious smile that could melt anyone's heart.

Though Oliver's life was brief, he touched the hearts of those who knew him and his memory lives on through them. Oliver was, and will always be, so loved and cherished by his family. Every day he taught them to show patience, love, joy, kindness, and gentleness to everyone. His life will continue to impact the lives of others, spreading love and compassion.

Oliver is survived by his parents, his sister Charlotte Wilson, and his grandparents, Kimberly and Richard Benway, George D. Wilson, and Barbara Jakubielski. He is predeceased by his grandfather Adam Jakubielski, Jr. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in Oliver's memory to Grace Science Foundation to further research of NGLY1 Deficiency and for the development of a gene therapy for this disorder. Donations can be made at gracescience.org under the "Donations" tab. Click "Dedicate your donation in memory of someone" and type "George Oliver Wilson" in the name box along with either of the parents' email addresses next to it.