Lifelong Southern California resident and former Arcadia Mayor George Fasching has died, it was announced last week.
Known for being a devoted family man, respected community leader and successful entrepreneur, Fasching passed away peacefully on April 14 in Arcadia at the age of 97.
Born Jan. 26, 1929, in Long Beach, he grew up in Alhambra and graduated from Alhambra High School. During his early years Fasching showed a strong sense of duty, reflected through his service in the U.S. Coast Guard following World War II.
He began a career in the oil industry during the 1960s, working as a supervisor of stations throughout Southern California for independent oil companies.
Fasching’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication came to the fore when he purchased his first gas station on Peck Road in El Monte. Over time, he expanded with two more gas stations in Arcadia and Montebello.
In 1977 after selling the three gas stations, Fasching and his wife Geri purchased and established Fasching’s Car Wash in Arcadia. George remained deeply involved in the business through the years, continuing to visit the office almost daily until earlier this year.
His commitment extended far beyond his professional life. Fasching was a significant figure in the Arcadia community, contributing decades of service to the Arcadia Rotary and serving on the Arcadia City Council from 1990-94. served as mayor in 1992, a role he valued immensely and considered one of his proudest accomplishments.
Friends and family recalled Fasching’s larger-than-life personality and his deep sense of love for family and friends. Known for unwavering loyalty, there was nothing he wouldn’t do to support the people close to him.
His passion for life included a love of horse racing, owning racehorses and avidly following the sport. He also enjoyed watching NFL football and playing golf, which brought him lots of joyful moments throughout his lifetime.
George was preceded in death by his parents George and Esther Fasching. His wife of 50 years Geri, who survives him along with their children and extended family — sons Bobby, Greg and Steve from a previous marriage, his daughter Leigh Ann, daughters-in-law Taylor and Nancy, beloved grandchildren Emily, Andrew, Paige, Reese, Todd, Ryan and Cameron, and his great-grandchildren Curren, Asher and Aspen, who all knew him as a loving and steadfast presence in their lives.
“George Fasching’s legacy is one of dedication — to his family, his community, and his career,” family members reflected in the announcement of his passing. “His influence on those who knew him and the city of Arcadia endures, and he will be sorely missed.”
Services will be held privately, honoring his wishes and the intimate bonds he cherished in life. To send memorial flowers to the family, visit the mortuary’s flower store.
