George Anton Aigner
George passed away peacefully Sunday morning, November 20, 2022, three months shy of his 82nd birthday. He was born on February 20,1941 in Cincinnati, Ohio to German immigrant parents, Joseph and Gertrude Aigner. George embraced his German heritage and lived the ideals of the American Dream.
George and his family moved to Santa Barbara when he was eleven years old. He attended San Roque School and later Saint Anthony’s Seminary. In 1960, George was a member of the first graduating class of Bishop Diego High School. He carried the knowledge and values he gained from his Catholic upbringing and education through life in faithful service to God, his family and his country. Upon graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Marines Corps serving as an infantryman where he was promoted to the rank of Corporal. He was very proud of being a Marine and never tired of telling stories of his service.
George married his wife Cheryl Stave at St. Raphael Catholic Church in Goleta, CA in November 1964 and became the best Dad, affectionately known as “Pop,” to his two children Glenn and Lisa, and “Opa” to his four grandchildren all of whom he loved beyond words. He raised his family in the Catholic faith as parishioners of San Roque Catholic Church.
In 1967, George became co-owner of the Tinderbox Pipe and Tobacco shop originally located in La Cumbre Plaza. Later, he spent many years at Jedlicka’s learning the boot business and becoming locally known as the “Best Boot Fitter on the West Coast.” In his free time, he was a classic car and hot rod enthusiast, enjoyed watching NASCAR, and was fond of exploring old western towns. He cherished every moment spending time with his family and many friends especially his fishing buddies who he considered brothers. George will be remembered as a humble, kind, family-loving man who was known for his bright beaming smile, warm hugs, firm handshake, meticulous work ethic and classy sense of style. He always made you feel like he was genuinely happy to see you.
He leaves behind his wife Cheryl, his son Glenn and wife Rose (Cavalli), daughter Lisa and husband Myles (Roberts), and grandchildren Sierra, Lucas, Maddie and Tawny. He will be greatly missed by all of them!
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at San Roque Catholic Church Saturday, December 10 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Friendship Center (friendshipcentersb.org) or the charity of your choice.