George "Buddy" R. Waeckel, Jr.

George R. Waeckel, Jr, known as “Buddy” to his family and “The Dad” to his three children, passed at the young  age of 71 surrounded by his devoted family who loved him for the wonderful, determined, resilient, intelligent, yet humble and private man that he was.

Buddy was a proud Marine Corps veteran and an accomplished, trusted, and legendary career Chief Credit Officer for over 30 years, setting the bar high and helping many in his industry. He was an exceptional storyteller, a multitalented and versatile individual, excelling in everything his artistic, hardworking hands touched.

Buddy's hobbies were quite varied and numerous. He was gifted with a green thumb, and a knack for cooking, often making a simple hotdog taste as though it was high cuisine, proudly stating “This is downtown only not as crowded”.   He assembled and meticulously painted model military airplane and tank displays, had a love and knowledge of classic cars, and of all sports including baseball and hockey which he played in his youth.  He was a passionate fan of progressive rock music, enjoyed drawing cartoons, reading, especially history, and had an extensive collection of model trains which included his construction of elaborate airbrushed platforms with buildings and intricate landscapes. His greatest passion however was bass fishing, often repeating the words of famed bass fisherman Roland Martin “Son, that’s a good fish!”

Bud was also a true historian, especially of World War I and World War II. His beloved cat, Peleliu, (Pele, Pelman) received his name in honor of the island and battle that his father, a highly decorated WWII Marine veteran, courageously fought and miraculously survived.

And, of course, George was a zealous and dedicated Philadelphia sports fan for over 60 years. He was an avid enthusiast of the Broad Street Bullies, an attendee of countless Phillies games, and “bled green” for the Birds, informing his only daughter that the “Eagles are a religion”.

Family would also say, in jest, that Buddy could be at times “particular” with certain things.  He kept his cherished truck, prized bass boat, Dodge Charger, and classic, special edition Barracuda in pristine condition, often ensuring there was always a roll of paper towels and a tub of cleaning products in his trunk.  A bottle, or 5, of Windex was always the preferred agent of choice and a faithful staple on his kitchen counter.

Upon receiving a call, Buddy's family members could expect to hear, "Are you going to Colonial today?" A typical order at Colonial Village was a 1/3 pound of roast beef (to make two sandwiches), "Our Own" Macaroni Salad, and always extra gravy. A trip to Giant meant picking up "three reds", aka Fairlife Whole Milk.

And, while George patroned many of his favorite local spots which included the Goodwill on Wednesdays, Belk’s Marine, Anna’s Sandwich Shop, the Springfield Diner, his most preferred and frequented was Delco’s own illustrious Wawa, where a small coffee and a Sizzli Breakfast sandwich were in order. A package of cigarettes may or may not have been included, but family is sworn to secrecy on that one!

There will be so much to miss of this dynamic, interesting, well learned, witty, simply awesome father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend.

George is survived by his three loving and devoted children: Erika, Andrew, and Matthew. He was an adored "Tee Top" (Ganpa) to his only granddaughter Angela Rose, belovingly called “Squeaks”, and was greatly looking forward to the arrival of "New Baby" as he referred to in his last months.  Amazing brother to his 3 sisters: Patricia Quinlan (Jim), Peggy Boraske (George), and Karen O'Neill (Tom). Also survived by his  cherished cat Peleliu, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Friday, June 21, 2024 from 10 am until 10:45 am at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 2130 Franklin Avenue, Morton, PA 19070. Buddy's Funeral Mass will follow at 11 am. Interment is private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Buddy's memory to Providence Animal Center .

Providence Animal Center
555 Sandy Bank Road, Media PA 19063
Web: https://providenceac.org/