George Schnakenberg was my husband. He was a phenomenal human being, passionate about life, and giving, and connecting, and exploring. A loyal friend and teacher to many, he inspired us to embrace the endless possibilities, to surrender to our destinies, and to always lend a helping hand. He amazed me every day with his ease and effortless ability to say yes to life's challenges, walk on the sunny side, and focus on that which matters -- love, integrity, and heartfelt connection.
George was a master of vulnerability, giving his heart and his desire to be seen more power than his fear. On our third date, in a roomful of people dressed in black-tie attire, he held me and kissed me, then whispered in my ear, "My foot just popped up!" That was it. I was in love.
Six months later when I left on a year-long solo travel adventure around the world, he was unwavering in his commitment to participate in our relationship, in whatever form that took, including my never coming home. I was struck by his courage and conviction, his ability to openly acknowledge uncertainty and fear while choosing to embrace the present and follow his heart with calm knowing. "It was the only choice I had," he would later tell me.
I returned home nine months later in the summer of 2011, and moved in with him. After two years of living, working, and studying in our urban San Francisco loft, we moved across the bay into our Oakland home, preparing to have a family. On November 26, 2013 we said our vows at City Hall with our child, unknowingly, growing in my belly. George died eight months later, and Nova was born the following week.
Despite his untimely departure, George continues to be a driving force in my life, through our deep soul connection and through our daughter, Nova. He is my light and love, my great teacher, my inspiration. I am forever grateful for his time with us.
Please visit the links below to learn more about George's work and to experience a bit of the world through his eyes.
Industrial DesignGeorge was an award-winning industrial designer, passionate about electric vehicles, solar energy, sustainability, and product longevity.
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PhotographyGeorge had an eye for beauty and a knack for photography.
Click below to see life through George's eyes. |
Stop Motion VideoDr. Jones was George's first electric bike build. While building, he shot still frames of the process and created this incredible stop-motion video.
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