The Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans community is deeply saddened to announce the passing of George A. D’Angelo, one of our esteemed founders, on August 4, 2024. George’s journey was marked by an unwavering dedication to service, both in the military and in his humanitarian efforts. His life was a testament to resilience, bravery, and an enduring commitment to improving the lives of veterans. As we remember and honor George, we reflect on his extraordinary life, his military career, and the profound impact he had on our organization and the veterans we serve.
George A. D’Angelo’s life was defined by service from an early age. Born to Nicola and Elvera D’Angelo, he grew up in the Beltzhoover area of Pittsburgh, attending St. George School and Church. His academic journey led him to Duquesne University, where he graduated with a degree in political science in 1965. Participating in the ROTC Program, George was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and soon attended flight school at Webb Air Force Base, Texas.
George’s military career was nothing short of remarkable. Over 12 years, he flew four different types of aircraft and served as a fighter pilot in the 12th Tactical Fighter Wing at Cam Rahn Air Force Base in Vietnam. His bravery in the face of danger was exemplified during one mission when he and his co-pilot had to eject from their jet and were rescued from a raft in the South China Sea. With characteristic humor, George would recount unzipping his flight suit to work on his tan while awaiting rescue—a glimpse into his indomitable spirit.
In 1973, George was posted to Liberia as a U.S. Air Attache, where he had the unique experience of flying the Navy C-117, also known as the C-47 gooney bird. His subsequent assignments included serving as a B-52 Aircraft Commander with the Strategic Air Command and as the Air Force Representative on the Olympics Task Force in 1984. George’s contributions during his military career were vast and varied, culminating in his role as Deputy Director of the Humanitarian Assistance Office in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. His efforts in developing and enacting programs that benefited countless individuals around the world earned him the Defense Superior Service Medal.
Upon retiring from the Air Force as a Colonel in 1990, George did not rest on his laurels. Instead, he pursued a PhD in Government Studies from Union College and embarked on a luminous career as a special advisor to the United Nations. His work in Conflict Prevention, Humanitarian Affairs, and Peace Keeping Operations further demonstrated his commitment to making the world a better place. Notably, he coordinated the UN’s International Day of Peace and founded the International Day of Peace Vigil, traveling the globe to promote peace through 24-hour spiritual observation, ceasefire, and nonviolence.
In 2015, George, alongside his dear friend Tony Accamando, co-founded Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans. Both Vietnam Veterans, George and Tony shared a deep concern for the alarming rate of veteran suicides. Determined to find a solution, they discovered the life-changing impact of service dogs through Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, a Florida-based organization that gifted service dogs to disabled veterans at no cost.
On Veterans Day 2015, George and Tony announced a bold challenge at the annual Veterans Day Breakfast in Pittsburgh: to raise enough money to provide 22 veterans with 22 service dogs in 22 months. Their efforts surpassed expectations, raising over $1.3 million in that period and leading to the formation of Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. With a team of dedicated volunteers, the organization has continued to raise funds, eventually shifting their mission to build a service dog breeding, raising, and training campus in McDonald, PA. This campus aims to address the significant shortfall of service dogs for veterans with visible and invisible disabilities, providing up to 70 additional service dogs per year.
George’s impact extended far beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a loving husband to Lisa, a devoted father to Rebecca, Keri, Lisa (Matt) Cowan, Lauren (Joe) Yearsley, who he also called his daughter, and a cherished grandfather to Brigette and Garrett Kelly and Clyde Cowan. His family, friends, and colleagues remember him as a man who lived life to the fullest, always with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face. George’s interests were as varied as they were passionate—from sailing his boat, The Inshallah, on the Chesapeake Bay, to making award-winning homemade wine with his friends, to participating in the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest in Key West.
His commitment to his community and his country was unwavering. George’s service to veterans did not end with the formation of Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans. He remained actively involved in various veteran-related organizations, continuously advocating for the well-being of military veterans. His efforts have left an indelible mark on the lives of countless veterans, providing them with the support and companionship of service dogs and, in many cases, saving their lives.
As we mourn the loss of George A. D’Angelo, we also celebrate his remarkable life and legacy. His contributions to the military, humanitarian efforts, and veteran support have made the world a better place. George’s story is one of courage, compassion, and an unyielding desire to help others. He lived a life of appreciation and acceptance, always seeing the best in others and making the most of every day and opportunity.
Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans organization will continue to honor George’s legacy by carrying forward his mission. The McDonald Campus, once completed, will stand as a testament to his vision and dedication, providing service dogs to veterans in need and ensuring that his spirit of giving lives on.
In lieu of flowers, George’s family has requested that contributions be made to Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans, Gallagher Hospice, Shepherd’s Heart Fellowship or through random acts of kindness in George’s memory. Let us honor and cherish the memory of this larger-than-life man by continuing his work and by making a positive difference in the lives of those around us.
George A. D’Angelo’s legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless lives he touched. His life was a beacon of hope and a reminder that with dedication and compassion, we can indeed change the world.
If you would like to donate to Life Changing Services Dogs For Veterans in Memorial of George you can Donate Here
