Katie Kramer

George and I met in 2005, when we found ourselves seated together for a company-sponsored dinner. Our task over appetizers was to answer a series of questions in an interview-like style, and then introduce the other to the full group later in the meal. What a fascinating conversation George and I had! He shared many stories of odd jobs and serious jobs and the love he had for his family. I discovered, in between his jokes and witty remarks, a humility in George – he took every experience and applied it to the next one. There was no life lesson wasted on George. When it was my turn to introduce him, we had more fun sharing in his funny anecdotes about working on a chicken farm than any of his more important characteristics, but that lesson from our first conversation remains with me to this day.

Some months, George and I worked very closely together, and other months would go by without much communication. When we did connect, I loved hearing about his latest research or insight. He was a kind and generous colleague, and I’ll miss having him part of the team.