George Michael Lavatelli, 76, on Wednesday, February 14, 2018 of Washington Twp. Beloved husband of the late Gail (nee Kababik). Loving father of JoAnn Lavatelli and her boyfriend Paul Ripoli and George Lavatelli and his wife Jean. Dear brother of Patricia Lankpoop and her husband Calvin. Born with music in his blood in Englewood, NJ. He lived in Palisades Park and Fairview before moving to Washington Twp. in 1988.
George's lifetime passion for R&B vocal group harmony ("doo wop") was fulfilled as an avid founding member of U.G.H.A., United Group Harmony Association, in the 1970s. He often performed locally with his vocal group, the Bon-Aires, who had previously recorded 3 singles for Rust Records in the mid-'60s.
His commitment to music continued in 1978 as a self-made businessman when he and a partner bought the Relic Record Shop on Main Street in downtown Hackensack. Through George's tireless efforts and many friendships, Relic became an important destination for record collectors and fellow rhythm & blues enthusiasts from all over the northeast.
George was also widely known as a “Mr. Fix-it”. Whether it was duct tape or a complex contraption, he could fix just about anything and would drop everything to help a friend in need. He will be sorely missed by family and friends far and wide.
Visitation at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood on Monday, February 19, 2018 from 4-8 pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in George’s memory may be made to: Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 North Van Brunt Street. Englewood, NJ 07631 or https://www.bergenpac.org/support-bergenpac/donate
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