George Stephen Jizmagian

A man of many names - Steve, Gigi, El Jefe, Baba - and even more talents, it’s impossible to put his impact and accomplishments into words, but here we do our best.

Steve was determined. Born in Providence, Rhode Island from a father who escaped the Armenian Genocide at 5 years old, Steve was the first in the family to attend college. After a full scholarship studying Electrical Engineering at Brown University, he set off to the West Coast to get his PHD in Operations Research from Stanford University. Quickly realizing that taking orders from others didn’t suit him well, he started his own businesses, SJ Capital and GSJ Associates where he shone as a well respected financial analyst and expert witness for over 55 years.

Steve was constantly curious. His determination didn’t stop at his career. In his thirties, he became a professional race car driver, excelling in the Formula Atlantic Series with his shiny red #74. In his forties he decided to learn Armenian, in his fifties the drums, in his sixties Spanish, and in his seventies the washboard.

Steve was charismatic. He had a contagious smile, sparkling eyes, and a mischievous smirk. He was the life of many parties. He made friends wherever he went and in every stage of his life. His charm grew him a close network at the Olympic Club where he was a member for over 50 years, playing squash, tennis, and working out. He served as Club President in 1989 and remained an avid golfer until the very end.

Steve was loyal. The friends he made carried with him for life and became a large extended family. He remained proud of his Rhode Island roots, a die-hard Yankees fan through and through, eventually becoming a proud supporter of the Ocean State Waves, the local College Baseball League team of Wakefield, Rhode Island.

Steve was larger than life and most of all he was an unbelievable son, brother, cousin, husband, and father. Married close to 41 years, he is remembered by his loving wife Mary, his son Greg, daughter-in-law Amy, daughter Annie, son-in-law Mauricio, and 5 grandkids - Gavin, Connor, Reed, Izzy, and Javi.

Of all the things he enjoyed, being at the beach remained at the top of his list throughout his 81 years. We hope he is enjoying the breeze.

"A memorial service is planned for Friday, February 9, 2024 at St. John's Armenian Church (275 Olympia Way, San Francisco) at 2pm, followed by a reception at the Olympic Club Lakeside (599 CA-35, San Francisco). Please note, business casual attire is required at the Olympic Club. All types of denim and hats are prohibited. For gentlemen, tucked in, collared shirts are required. If you feel so compelled, instead of flowers, you may donate to the Ocean State Waves (paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=NSRX9SKVWPCBS). For any questions or to share your own memories of Steve, please contact [email protected]."