George Henry Mendel passed away in Houston on Saturday, May 23, 2026, exactly one month shy of his 80th birthday.

George was born on June 23, 1946, in Hallettsville, Texas, the youngest of five children born to Henry and Adela Gassmann Mendel. He came from a large family with more than 80 first cousins and treasured the Sunday gatherings they shared while growing up on the family farm.

After graduating from Bishop Forest High School, George served in the United States Army and was stationed in Alaska. Upon returning home, he married Doris Laverne Benfer on April 4, 1970. Together they shared 48 years of marriage filled with dancing, family, and cherished friendships.

George worked for the United States Postal Service for 30 years as a letter carrier. He was a longtime member of Christ the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, where he and Doris shared many friendships through the church's 55+ Group and enjoyed traveling on trips with the group. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed gardening, playing dominoes, and spending time with those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Mendel; his parents, Henry and Adela Mendel; his brother, Alton Mendel; his sisters, Estelle, Evelyn, and Eleanora; and his brothers-in-law, Billy and Art.

George is survived by his son, Steven Mendel, and daughter-in-law, Shelly Mendel; his three granddaughters, Sydney Bullock (Brennan), Kenzie Mendel, and Chelsea Mendel; along with generations of loving nieces and nephews.

Arrangements in the care of Klein Funeral Home.