It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of George H. Hecht, who left this world peacefully on September 12, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on July 22, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, George was a beloved husband, a dedicated serviceman, and a cherished member of his community.
George was the son of the late George H. and Elizabeth (Phillips) Hecht. He was preceded in death by his parents, who instilled in him the values of hard work, loyalty, and compassion that he carried throughout his life.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jane E. (McKay) Hecht, with whom he shared a deep and abiding love. Their bond was a testament to the power of partnership, laughter, and mutual support, and their life together was filled with countless cherished moments.
George proudly served in the U.S. Air Force, dedicating his life to protecting the freedoms we hold dear. His military service was a defining chapter of his life, one that he approached with honor and commitment. After his service, George returned to civilian life, where he continued to exemplify these values through his community involvement.
As a founding member and Treasurer of the Pelikan Model Club, George cultivated a passion for model building that brought together many friends and fellow hobbyists. His meticulous attention to detail and creativity were apparent in every project he undertook, and he inspired others to pursue their interests with the same enthusiasm.
George’s contributions to his community extended beyond his hobbies. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, and he will be remembered for his unwavering spirit and dedication to those around him.
A funeral service will be held on October 25, 2025, with a gathering of family and friends at 1:oo PM, followed by Military Honors at 2:00 PM, with a celebration of George’s life from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Veterans Funeral Care, where we will gather to share stories and remember the impact he had on all who knew him.
In place of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Operation Toy Soldier, ensuring that the spirit of giving continues in George’s honor. Checks can be made payable to Operation Toy Soldier and sent to:
Veterans Funeral Care
830 N. Belcher Road
Clearwater, Florida 33765
Additionally, contributions may be sent to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, an organization dedicated to honoring our heroes. Donations can be mailed to:
Tunnels to Towers Foundation
2361 Hylan Boulevard
Staten Island, NY 10306
George H. Hecht will be profoundly missed but never forgotten. His life was a beautiful tapestry of service, love, and community. May he rest in peace, knowing the indelible mark he has left on our hearts.
A true friend who got me interested in the military vehicle hobby/addiction
You will be truly missed
George was a friend and mentor. Who brought me into the Military Vehicle Hobby. But also help make me a better person. He will be missed
George made every day at Depco more fun. His humor showed his love for everyone. I will remember him fondant always with a smile. God speed my friend.
So many good memories with George. He was a fixture at the model car club. Just loved people and loved being around anything that had to do with veterans or military things. I remember when we had a military car show at Veterans Funeral Care. I was worried who would show up?!? Well the parking lot was full. Front, back, sides. He had everything there except a helicopter and a Saturn rocket. What a blast we had. We thought of George as a staff member at Veterans Funeral Care. People won’t forget George Hecht.
Jim Rudolph, President
Veterans Funeral Care
I worked with George for quite a few years. I had the honor and pleasure of calling him a true friend. We actually were
“roommates” for year or so and have great memories of that time. He will not be forgotten. Many his memory be for a blessing.
I knew George during my years at Depco Pump company and before that, at the West Marine Call Center. His sense of humor and whit always brought a smile to my face. He had a funny nick name for everyone at Depco. He affectionately called me “the Blue Flash”. He loved model building, and his talent was evident with the ship model displays throughout Depco. Sometimes I would talk to him at car shows and the Sun n’ Fun air show, where he proudly displayed his jeep and the “mule” military vehicle. Since I retired, I haven’t seen as much of George but I always looked forward to seeing him at the Depco charity can contest when the three retirees judged the winner. I will miss him very much.