Dr. George F. D'Annunzio

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Dr. George D’Annunzio, age 58. George, a New Jersey native, dedicated the start of his career to his chiropractic practice where he treated each patient with personalized care and an ever-present warming smile. Committed to the community, his dedication to the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities (NJID) began in the 1990s. Moved by NJID's mission to enhance the lives of those with disabilities, George became one of its most ardent advocates and board members. During his tenure as Chair of the Board, his ability to steer the board with integrity, compassion, and foresight left an indelible mark on the organization and, more importantly, on the lives of the countless individuals NJID serves.

His volunteering wasn't a pastime but a calling. In addition to NJID, George spent the past several years helping people who have been affected by natural disasters, such as, Hurricane Irma in the Florida Keys, Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, and Hurricane Ian in Fort Myers. Chainsaw in one hand and toolbox in the other, he volunteered with organizations including the Rothrock Foundation, All Hands and Hearts, and Inspiritus. To people whose lives were devastated, George brought his positive energy and playful spirit. He helped rebuild their homes, leaving them with both hope and a new friend.

As a father, his daughter Gabrielle was the jewel of his life, the living echo of his adventurous and determined beautiful spirit. In her, his legacy finds an eternal lease on life, a promise that his love will continue to blossom in the world. With Paula, his partner for many years, he shared unconditional love and acceptance along with an unquenchable thirst for exploration and discovery. He leaves Gabrielle, Paula, and everyone who knew him the motivation to embrace their sense of adventure and be their most authentic selves.

Every situation George touched, whether in Rushford, NY or New River, AZ, he had a profound ability to create community. He didn't just inhabit a place; he enlivened it, threading people together into a tapestry of shared joys, laughs, mutual support, parties, and collective thriving. His presence was a hearth, around which strangers discovered the delight of becoming a family. With a smile, a joke, a kind word, or a helping hand, he built a sense of unity that many yearned for but didn't know how to manifest. George wasn't just a man; he was an experience. Whether partying, surfing, motorcycling, traveling, or volunteering, spending time with George meant you were in for something extraordinary.

George's departure is a jolt, an unexpected goodbye that no amount of forewarning could've cushioned. Yet, in the ache that his absence leaves, we find the strongest evidence of his life's resounding success. George died having lived a good life. We cry because ours just became dimmer. George may have concluded his earthly journey, but his voyage continues within each life he touched, each heart he warmed, and each bond he fostered. Rest in peace, our dear partner, friend, father, adventurer, and unwavering volunteer. Your legacy lives on. Forever.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in George's memory to the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities. A link is provided in the 'Donations' section below.

A Memorial Service and Reception is being held on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at the Heldrich Hotel and Conference Center of New Brunswick, NJ (hotel rooms are available). Event schedule: 6:00pm - 7:00pm Memorial Service with a reception to follow. The service will start promptly at 6. Please select the link below in the 'Donations' section to RSVP.