George J. Pavlakovich

George Pavlakovich, 85, of Centennial, CO passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 11, 2026, surrounded by his family’s love.

He was the son of George and Josephine Pavlakovich and was born on August 2, 1941, in the Globeville neighborhood in North Denver. He had a younger brother, Frank (Marilyn). George attended Holy Rosary Catholic School and graduated from Cathedral High School in 1959. He also attended Regis College for two years.

George met his wife, Barbara Plut through mutual friends Mike Valiant, Bob and Dianne Younkerman and their first date was at the wedding of Barb’s sister Betty and George’s friend Mike Valiant. George and Barbara were married in 1964 and bought their first house, a two-bedroom, one bath home that they quickly outgrew after their three children, Julie, Kris, and Dan were all born in a four-year period. In 1970, the family moved to the suburbs in what is now Centennial. They raised their family in this home and George spent a lot of time working on his manicured lawn and huge garden that was the envy of many of his neighbors. The family home was also a hub of activity for the many friends of Julie, Krissy and Danny.

George got his first job at Miller’s Super Market, and it was here that he met his lifelong friend, Alex Distol, who ultimately became the best man in George and Barb’s wedding. Shortly after graduating from high school, George began working at Western Electric Co. where he had a 35-year career with the company that would become AT&T Technologies. In 1962 George enlisted and served in the Army National Guard for eight years. After his retirement from AT&T, George quickly realized that he needed to do something to occupy his time and expend some of his energy. After a few part-time jobs, he started working for Jones International and retired for good when he was 75.

His faith was important to him and George was a parishioner at St. Thomas More Catholic Church for 56 years.

George and Barb had a wonderful life together and shared almost 63 years of marriage. Together they created wonderful memories of family vacations, camping, and fishing. George was devoted to his kids and attended countless school activities, practices and games. George and Barb loved Las Vegas, horse racing, theatre productions and concerts. He loved football, especially college games, and was a devoted fan of Notre Dame and the Denver Broncos. When his grandchildren were born, they became his priority. He was proud of their accomplishments and cherished the time they had together. George was generous with his time and after his second retirement, he began volunteering several times a week at a local assisted living facility. He will be fondly remembered for his fun-loving, warm and outgoing personality.

Several years ago, George was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia and spent the last 21 months of his life at Highline Place Memory Care. While there, the caregivers provided loving and compassionate care, and George was treated with respect and dignity by the entire staff. The family is deeply grateful for the personal and warm care extended to the entire family.

George is survived by his wife, Barbara, daughters Julie (Jeff) Hoover of Keller, TX, Kris (Gene) Krist of Highlands Ranch, CO, son, Dan Pavlakovich of Littleton, CO, and grandchildren, Jordan and Matthew Krist and Justin and Jamie Hoover. He is also survived by sister-in law Betty Valiant, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

George is proceeded in death by his parents, George and Josephine Pavlakovich and in-laws, John and Ellen Plut.

The family welcomes anyone who wishes to join them in sharing memories at George's Celebration of Life.