George Leon "Junior" Rock, age 87, of Butler, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, at his home surrounded by family.

Born in Butler on May 15, 1936, he was the son of the late George and Mary (Betty) Rock. On Dec. 28, 1959, he married the love of his life, Shirley A. (Kay) Rock. A dedicated family man, he was the dad to four devoted children and the adored PopPop to 11 grandchildren.

For 30+ years, Junior proudly wore the title of Mr. Rock as a teacher at McQuistion Elementary School in the Butler Area School District. He was known for his dedication to his students, many of whom he remained in touch with over the years. He was also a Korean War era veteran, serving in the U.S. Air Force.

He was a very active member of All Saints Parish, Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church. He was also a former member of the Elks.

Junior was a known sports fan, as an avid golfer, fisherman, and supporter of all Pittsburgh sports teams. He was a Butler High basketball standout and went on to coach Butler area youth at both the elementary and high school levels.

In 2015, he became a medical technology pioneer after a health emergency that led to heart failure. He received a newly developed, cutting-edge implantable heart pump that took over the function of his damaged left ventricle. Following his successful recovery, he became an ambassador for the left ventricle assist device, or LVAD.

He will be remembered for his infectious smile and sense of humor, devotion to his family, and his playful and competitive spirit.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert Rock and Richard Rock; and one sister, Dorothy (Rock) Onufer. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Rock; his kids: Steve (Nancy) Rock of Greer, S.C.; Shari (Gene) Jaskiewicz of Hudson, Ohio; Tracy Rae of Harmony, Pa.; and Larry (Karen) Rock of Hagerstown, Md.; his grandkids: Derek (Hannah) Rock, Rachel Rock, Carrie (Ryan) Mizer, Aaron Jaskiewicz, Cole Jaskiewicz, Tara Rae, Brianna (Paul) Cundiff, Brendan Rae, Tanner Beal, Logan Beal, and Emma Beal; and his faithful dog Zoe.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate George's life in the Martin Funeral Home, 429 Center Ave., Butler, on Friday, Jan. 19 from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, Jan. 20, at 10 a.m. from All Saints Parish, Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church, 128 N. McKean St., Butler, with Rev. John Baver officiating.

Burial will take place in Calvary Cemetery. A reception luncheon will follow. Specifics will be provided after the funeral Mass.

Military Honors will be accorded at the cemetery by VFW Post 249, American Legion Post 117, American Legion Post 778, and VFW Post 499.

The family requests memorial donations to All Saints Parish, 128 N. McKean St., Butler, PA 16001.