George, you were one of the "good ones" I'm am glad we got to share some great times in Basel. I am lucky to be able to always remember you through your paintings I have hanging proudly on my walls! RIP my friend.
Although we no longer lived in the same place, it was always comforting to know that George was out there somewhere, enjoying life to its fullest even if you weren't. George, a true bon vivant who inscribed his name in the book of life. He was the best at nudging people towards fun and new experiences--if there wasn't an adventure at hand, he'd create one for you! Thanks George.
A legend. A linguist. A storyteller. An artist. On Arab Street in Singapore, multiple restaurant owners would wade through the crowd yelling “George! Habibi!” and he would speak in Arabic right back. He was a god. It was like walking with Obama. Will miss our Saturday nights on his balcony: a 2nd floor, non-AC, living-like-a-local, walk-up flat - shooting the breeze and drinking warm beer.
George was one of my childhood friends from the neighborhood on Marine Road. I have fond memories of him. How very sad! My sincere condolences go out to his family and friends.
Kenny and family, Jen and I are sorry for your loss. I wish we had been able to spend more time George. Our sincerest condolences.
George my dear friend & an inspiration to my son Jacob. So many good times in Mombasa at his house or at the sailing club on a Friday after school. George, Jacob & I would go for Wednesday pizza & beer; we were family in Mombasa. His passion for art, love of life & his own maverick style was George. Remember George with a smile & a drink to cheers him; may you be forever free in Kenya
George worked for me three times: in Abu Dhabi, Switzerland and Kenya. I was in Singapore when he was first diagnosed and his immediate courage was immense. In all our years working together, he always fought for the underdog, entering my office always to speak for someone or to point out an injustice. Never once did he ask anything for him. He was a unique and special human being.
Many images spring to mind remembering George- trying to sell off his chickens in the school reception in Mombasa, talking passionately about his fertile soil for his vegetables, sunk in a canvas chair on the deck with a tusker in hand at the Yacht club and filling me in on his Boston upbringing around Whitey Bulger. He had a great spirit and a sense of fun. You will be sadly missed.
George was a wonderful friend and dear colleague during my time in Mombasa. I was fortunate to work alongside him for six years. He had a zest for life and his art. A true storyteller at heart, he would often regale us with his adventures over a cold tangawezi and mango juice as we looked over the ocean and the twinkling lights of Mombasa. Asante sana, George. You live on in our hearts.
George, you were ‘one of a kind’. Everyone you came into contact with is lucky to have known you – even if for only a short time. I saw your actions impact so many people’s lives in Egypt, Switzerland and Kenya. I am proud to have known you and your memory is never far.
The photos on this site are all a testament to the smiling, caring George we knew. I worked with George in Egypt and met up with him less than two years ago in Singapore. He spoke of his getting up every morning no matter what to be there 'for the kids.' The world is a quieter and sadder place without him. But he lives on in so many people's memories.
I knew George at the beginning of his time in Basel, Switzerland, when we were colleagues and then friends. George liked to swim and he liked to kick the traces of whatever confined him. We used to sneak off and swim in St. Jacob pool as a reprieve from meetings and nonsense. He had a great sense of irreverent humour and a lot of Irish-Italian charm. He was kind. I'll miss him.
I have known George for a couple of years while in Kenya, he was a very good family friend and supportive to my family,
George you left a legacy that can't be replaced,my family and Junior will miss you alot.
Till we meet again, Rest In Peace.
I met George during his time in Switzerland. He kindled my interest in teaching and his sage advice guided me during my formative years of learning to teach. He became a great friend and we stayed in contact over the years. His wonderful paintings still adorn my walls. The world will miss George's kind soul. I will miss him too. Rest in Peace, George.
I am so sad by this news of Mr. Killeen. Over the years I tried reaching out to him to say what an impression he made on me. He often talked to me about the importance of "following your bliss". He was such a creative character and I thoroughly enjoyed having him as my IB Visual Arts teacher in Cairo, Egypt in 1999-2000. Mr. Killeen, I am a Visual Arts teacher now, thanks to you! With love
