George L. Sokolinski (55) of Holiday, Florida, formerly of Vandalia and Effingham

George L. Sokolinski, 55, of Holiday, Florida, formerly of Effingham and Vandalia, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, October 11, 2016 at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 15 at Dobies Funeral Home, New Port Richey, Florida. Visitation will be held from 6 - ­8 p.m. on Friday. Memorials may be made in loving memory of George to the Pasco County Humane Society.

George L. Sokolinski was born on July 7, 1961 in Miami, Florida to Arthur and Rosie (Headley) Sokolinski. George and his family moved several times throughout his life giving him the opportunity to see several parts of the United States. George had a fascination of how things worked and found his passion while attending National Aviation Academy in Clearwater, Florida. George then went on to become an instructor at National Aviation Academy where he worked up to the point of his death. Animals and his three furry friends were also his passion. George spent his free time taking his dogs to dog parks and the beach. One thing George never gave up on was his beloved Chicago Cubs. He was a true fan that had hope and faith that “this would be their year!” Go Cubs, Go!

George is survived by his siblings, Patti (Larry) Smith of New Port Richey, Danny (Laurie)Sokolinski of Plainfield, Illinois and Deanna (Carl) Koester of Effingham, Illinois; Nieces, Courtney Koester and special friend (Patrick Johnson), and Madison Sokolinski; Nephews, Scott (Jennie) Sokolinski, and Colin Koester; five great nieces; and his three furry friends, Hugo, Motta, and Kahlua.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents; parents; and great nephew, Gavin Leo Sokolinski.