George Semple

George J. Semple, 86, of Erie, PA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 22, 2022, at his son’s home in Pensacola, FL with family at his side. He was born in Erie on June 16, 1936.

George graduated from Cathedral Prep High School, Class of 1955 where he was an All-City High School Wrestling Champion on the Varsity Team. He obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Gannon College in 1959 and a Master of Business Administration Degree in Hospital Administration in 1962 from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. He completed an A.S. Degree in Nursing and his Registered Nurse certification at Jamestown Community College SUNY in Jamestown, NY.

George had a passion for business and healthcare management serving as Hospital Director of Hale Hospital and Glynn Nursing Home in Haverhill, Mass. and later as Director of Tioga General Hospital and Tioga Nursing Home in Waverly, NY. He also owned and managed a friendly neighborhood tavern, The Semple Place, on W. 12th Street in Millcreek. His other talents included being a master chili chef, as well as a skilled handyman, frequently demonstrating his expertise as an amateur electrician, plumber, carpenter, painter, and furniture builder.

He was most comfortable, however, being in the outdoors. As a young man, and later in life with his family, George spent countless days in the woods, hunting and camping, and out on the water, fishing and boating. He was also a very capable long-distance swimmer, having claimed 2nd Place in the Male Age 60-69 Category at the 1997 “Fort to Fort” Swim Event (1.5 miles) aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida. He taught his children to hunt, fish, and appreciate the outdoors as well.

He enjoyed countless adventures and memories traveling throughout the United States with his children. Encouraging them to pursue their dreams, he took immense pride in watching them flourish. He demonstrated his affection for his family through the multiple home improvement projects that he thoughtfully and selflessly completed during each of his visits.

As a resident of St. Joseph’s Apartments on 6th Street in Erie during the last 10 years of his life, he appreciated the company of his many friends there.

George is survived by his children: Dr. George J. (Charlotte) Semple II, Stephen Semple, Linda J. Semple, RN, Dr. Charles A. (Glenda) Semple, four wonderful grandchildren: George III, J.T., Julia, and James, and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his loving siblings; Patricia Arata, and Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Semple.

George will be remembered as a supportive father, a loyal friend, a successful business leader, and a rugged American outdoorsman.

Friends are invited to the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services Inc. Downtown, 602 W. 10th St., on Friday, June 16, 2023, for a 10:00 a.m. memorial service and a 1:00 p.m. burial service in the Erie Cemetery.

Send condolences to www.BurtonQuinnScott.com