George William Graham will always be remembered by his family as a loving father, grandfather and husband. But he also brought a ray of sunshine into many people's lives as he was a colourful character in every sense of the word. George was one of those very special people who always saw the best in everyone and every situation; he was a boundless optimist, and life was one big adventure to be enjoyed and laughed at. No matter what life threw at him, he never complained, never spoke a bad word about anyone and always had a ready smile and a joke, and time for a chat. George grew up in Manchester, England, during the depression and the second world war, but his artistic talent set him apart from his peers and opened new doors. A scholarship to art school enabled him to forge a successful life-long career in the newspaper business as a commercial artist, both in Manchester and then later in Sydney after he and the family emigrated in 1969. He worked hard and provided well for his family, building a new home in Australia; gave his children educational and life opportunities; and enjoyed many adventurous family holidays which included opal mining in Lightning Ridge, trekking in Nepal, skiing in New Zealand and climbing Ayres Rock. Art, music and soccer were always a very big big part of his life; he was a creative, generous and gentle man with an original and inquiring mind. As well as having a colourful personality, George was well known for his bold and creative colour schemes wherever he lived. In his later years in Bateau Bay, he took great delight in painting the walls of his retirement unit purple, red and green, with bright geometric shapes, with plans for more home renovations afoot. Ever optimistic, he always had exciting plans for the future. Even after having both knees replaced, recovering from cancer and relying on a walking frame to get about, he insisted on buying a bicycle and remained convinced he would soon be riding it! He enjoyed his retirement years in Bateau Bay, with many happy outings to The Entrance and Terrigal with his grandchildren. He also made many new friends and very much appreciated the support and care he received after he moved to Elderslee Retirement Village. He loved his unit there and spent many happy days sitting out in the sun with friends and family on the outdoor patio he created as one of his many home renovation projects. George's life touched many people for the better and we were all privileged to have had him in our lives. His artistic talent and his gentle and generous spirit lives on through his children and grandchildren and he will never be forgotten. Hi family and friends pay tribute to his life; honour his memory; and express our appreciation and our love for him.