George's obituary
George Arthur Chacon, a vibrant soul and master of the canvas, garden, and written word, passed away on January 30, 2024, at the age of 55 after a brief battle with cancer. George peacefully completed his journey, with his husband by his side, in Baltimore, Maryland at Mercy Medical Center where the entire staff provided compassionate care and treated him like family, all the while being charmed by his contagious smile. Born in Los Angeles, California, on February 22, 1968, George spent the first part of his life in Southern California before immersing himself enthusiastically in San Francisco for two decades. Eventually, he settled in Maryland, making his final residence in Timonium. George painted his life's story with broad, bold strokes of generosity and creativity.
A true garden whisperer and poet at heart, George could often be found with his hands in the dirt, coaxing flowers and native plants into bloom, or with a brush in hand, turning blank canvases into windows of his soul. His poetry, like his gardens, was a testament to the beauty he cultivated in the world. George's generosity knew no bounds, and he was always the first to lend a hand or a listening ear. His heart was a canvas of kindness, each good deed a splash of color that brightened the lives of all around him.
His educational journey led him to UCLA, where he obtained a degree in English. Always seeking new challenges, later in life, he pursued his passion for enriching our natural surroundings and earned a certificate in landscape architecture from the University of California Berkeley. George's career path was diverse, yet he never felt entirely fulfilled until he made the transition to landscape design, first honing his craft at Carducci & Associates for more than eight years before embarking on a new chapter at Merrill Morris Partners.
George’s life was a masterpiece woven with cherished relationships. His beloved spouse, Steven Peno, was his steadfast companion for twenty years, sharing in the joys of love, laughter, and countless adventures. His family bond remained unbreakable, embracing his mother, Elba Chacon, sister Diana Benitez (Ed), and brothers Luis Chacon (Nelly) and Conrad Chacon (Veronica). George's warmth and generosity radiated outwards, touching the lives of numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and even grandnieces and grandnephews.
In addition to his immediate family, George leaves behind treasured in-laws who became an integral part of his life. He was a beloved son-in-law to Normand and Lucy Peno, and an adored brother-in-law to Leonard Peno (Audrey), Linda Mello, and Michael Peno (Donna). Their love and support brought immeasurable joy to his life, enriching the tapestry of his family circle.
Among George’s closest companions were his feline muses, Pru and Foggy, who will forever miss their favorite human. Moreover, George found solace and strength in the enduring friendship of Ellen Morrison, whose unwavering support and inspiration illuminated his path. George’s legacy of love, kindness, and deep connections will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
George was preceded in death by his father, Luis Chacon, and his brother-in-law, Peter Mello.
A celebration of George's life, complete with colorful anecdotes and a garden of memories, will be announced at a later date. In lieu of traditional remembrances, contributions can be made to your favorite botanical garden or arboretum, or to the GAC Memorial Fund through Ever Loved. This fund will support Baltimore’s Cylburn Arboretum, where George's legacy will be honored with a memorial tree or bench. George's appreciation for nature makes supporting these organizations particularly meaningful and will provide a place where his spirit can continue to bloom and grow.
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