Georgiy Soloviyov
July 31, 2012
Georgiy Borisovitch Soloviyov, 35, died suddenly on Tuesday July 31, 2012, in a work-related accident. Funeral services are Friday, August 3, 10:00 a.m., at Lincoln Heights Lutheran Church, 1223 W. Watrous Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa.
George was born on October 19, 1976, in Kiev, Ukraine, the youngest of three sons born to Nina Soloviyov. Educated in government schools, George graduated Kiev No. 25 in 1994. George lived with his family and worked as a gardener, mechanic, cabinet maker, and security guard.
In November of 1993, the Ukrainian young man met an American girl on a mission trip with her family. Lori Schwark returned to the U.S. the next summer, while the two maintained a very long-distance romance until George came to the U.S. in 1996. The couple was married in Brillion, Wisconsin, on November 29, 1996, and they lived there for a year while Lori taught at Trinity Lutheran School.
Finally George was granted a work visa and moved with Lori to Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, for Lori’s next call to teach, and George was employed at a foundry. Their first child, Tatayana, was born there in 1998. Lori’s next call to teach was in Houston, where the family relocated a few years later.
George was a machinist for H & W Manufacturing in Houston for three years before he joined Union Pacific Railroad. Lori and George’s sons, Yuri (2002) and Aleksei (2005), were born in Houston. First George became a Texan and then a proud United States citizen in 2004. Because he wanted an American diploma, George earned his GED at North Harris College in Houston. In 2007 the family was transferred with Union Pacific to Iowa, shortly before their second daughter, Katya, arrived.
The Soloviyovs happily settled on an acreage near Stanhope. They raised children, chickens, a garden, cats, and flowers, and George had plenty of space to shoot his gun collection at targets set up in the pasture. George thrived on helping his neighbors, household projects, and building projects around his acreage. The playhouse he built for his children this summer is a monument to his skills as a builder as well as his love for them.
George was larger than life and full of life, always hospitable and generous. He loved a good campfire with his neighbors and a chance to win at a card game. His favorite greeting, “Don’t be a stranger! Sit down!” was a trademark.
George will be missed by many and remembered by everyone whose path crossed with his in two countries and several states. He was a strong leader for his family, who will always love him. Left to honor him are wife Lori, daughters Tatyana and Katya, sons Yuri and Aleksei, and Lori’s large family including parents Rev. Melvin and Elizabeth Schwark, also his godparents. He was preceded in death by his mother, Nina.
Online condolences may be directed to:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Bernice Spitzenberger
08/02/2012
Words can't begin to express what my heart feels at the loss of Yura, a fine friend, Christian and most important a fine husband and father. You are so blessed to have had him as your husband, Lori, and the children to have him for a father. He was a great friend to all. My love and prayers to you and the children and at this time draw on your faith for strength to stay strong. He is in God's wonderful trust. I am so happy we had the week together this spring and all the laughter. May God put his arms around you and your family and hold you close.
Much love and prayers,
Bernice Spitzenberger
Laura Swanson
08/02/2012
Lori and family, our deepest condolences to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers in this difficult time. Everyone here at CIT Charters, Inc is saddened to hear about George's passing. He brought many tears of happiness and laughter as he worked here and everlasting friendships with many people he worked with. He will be sadly missed by all, staff at CIT Charters, Inc.
George Kocharov
08/02/2012
I am so sorry for the loss of great man, husband and father. Lori, stay stong. Will pray for you. (UP employee)
Keith Pfaff
08/02/2012
My Deepest condolences for your loss May He Rest in Peace and May God Welcome him Home
Dave Kaiser
08/02/2012
Lori and family,
I was shocked and saddened by your unexpected loss. You have our deepest sympathy at this very sad time.
It is times like this that put our faith to the test. We feel that is why we have to use our faith to see us through the grief and despair that comes with tragedy.
The Bible says "Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted." I pray that God will bless you and give you the strength to get through this very difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.
With our deepest condolences,
Dave (UP Employee) & Sarah Kaiser
Nicole Warner
08/01/2012
My family and I are so sorry for your loss. We pray for your strength through this sad time.