George Vasilev Chaushev

George Vasilev Chaushev, lovingly called “Diado Gosho” by his grandchildren and “Papa George” by his American friends, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on November 21st, 2022 at the age of 92. He was born in the Southern part of Bulgaria in a village called Daretz on July 7th, 1930 to Vasil and Angelina Chaushev. As a young man, George joined the Bulgarian Navy as a sonar specialist patrolling the Black Sea coast in submarines. After his time in the Navy, George was sent to work as an electrician in the coal mines of the Donbass region of Ukraine. There he met the love of his life Liubov, Russian for “Love.”

George was admired for his classic movie star looks and beautiful singing voice, but it was his kind eyes and heart that convinced Love to fall for this tall, dark and handsome foreigner. They quickly married and had their first child Angelina, named after George’s mother. In his late years, George would recount one of the most important moments of his life which was the story of bringing his new wife and baby daughter back to his village in Bulgaria to meet his family. His eldest brother, Dimitar, greeted them at the bus station and asked, “Georgie, where did you find this gold?” George beamed with pride and joy when telling the story to his grandchildren.

Over their 65 years together George and Love experienced many joys and hardships, yet no matter the circumstance, George made it a priority to always have fresh flowers waiting for his love in the morning on the anniversary of the day they first met. With his romantic nature, George had a way of bringing joy to any gathering with a thoughtful toast and spirited song. Although he did not have a formal education, he loved literature, poetry and aligned his beliefs with those who practice kindness and tolerance of all people. George was a hard worker and took pride in every job. In his retired years in the United States, he insisted on working and contributed his gardening skills to dear friends. At home, he grew tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, watermelon and grapes which he turned into traditional Bulgarian wine. He loved to share his bounty with all. He had a happy long life though when asked how he is doing he would reply with a smile, “I’m happy, but I won’t say I’m very happy because others might get jealous.

George is survived by his love, Liubov, his children Angelina Chukanov (Kiril) and Vasil Chaushev (Nadejda), grandchildren Alexander “George” Sammons (Natalia), Dennis Chaushev, George Chaushev, Vladimir Chaushev, Laura Chukanov (Matthew Emmi), Anthony Chukanov (Justine), and great-grandchildren Liliana, Maia, Nika, Elizabeth, and Sofia. He will be greatly missed and loved by all who knew him.

Friends are invited to attend an open house memorial on Monday, December 5, 2022 from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Goff Mortuary, 8090 S. State Street, Midvale, UT 84047.