George T. Ostrowski, 77, of Walton passed away on May 17 at the Albany VA facility following an extended hospitalization.

George was born in Queens, NY to Stan and Ann Doolan Ostrowski. After high school, he enlisted in the US Marine Corps. After Active Duty, he joined the New York City Transit Authority Police force, serving for 15 years. During this time, he enlisted in the New York Air National Guard. He served in the Air Guard on a part-time basis until he retired from the police department, at which time he became a fulltime Active Guard Reserve military member. He served for 26 years at the 106th Rescue Wing, Westhampton, NY, retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant. He was an Operation Southern Watch veteran.

In the early 2000s, George and his wife, Penny, relocated to Walton. He immediately became an active member of the community. He was a member of Walton Veterans Club, VFW Post #270, Americal Legion Post #32, and Walton Lions Club. George and Penny were well known as "Santa and Mrs. Claus." They volunteered for years at several community venues to bring the magic of Christmas to hundreds of children.

To know George was to understand his deep love for his wife and his passion for life. Penny was his soulmate. Together they enjoyed camping, skiing, roller coasters, traveling & cruising, spending time with grandson Asa, and trips to any casino George could find. He especially loved penny slots.

George was predeceased by his parents, one brother, John, and one sister, Donna. He is survived by his loving wife, Penny, one brother, Stan, and two sisters, Eileen (Donnie) Terito and Maryanne Ostrowski. He is also survived by two sons, George Jr. (Kim) and Greg (Sherry), three grandsons, Asa, Kyle, and Evan, as well as beloved nieces and nephews, including Nicole and Douglas Terito.

Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday, May 25, 2023 from 4 to 7PM at the Courtney Funeral Home, 25 Townsend Street, Walton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 26 at 11AM at St. John the Baptist Church, 25 Benton Avenue, Walton, NY. Interment will follow at the Walton Cemetery, 55 Fancher Avenue, Walton with Full Military Honors.

Those wishing to do so may make memorial contributions in George's name to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation at www.t2t.org