George Z. Gajewski, 73, of Chicopee, Massachusetts, passed away on June 16, 2025, after a valiant fight with cancer. He often said, “None of us are getting out of here alive,” and, in the end, he had to be right, one last time. George immigrated to the U.S. in the early 1950s aboard the Queen Mary with his parents, Marian and Boleslawa, and his sister, Renata. The family settled in Holyoke, MA, where George made lifelong friends and discovered his love of motorcycles. He owned a Harley since the age of 16 and often joked he was “born with an iron deficiency.” Riding brought him joy, freedom, and connection; many of his riding friends became his chosen family. He worked as an industrial maintenance mechanic for several local companies and took great pride in everything he did, whether it was on the job, tackling a home project (even the ones he didn’t quite finish), or tending to his garden. George was especially proud of the home he had built, a welcoming space where the blues were playing, sports were on in the background, and there was always tea, beer, bourbon, and Polish tube steak on hand. George was known for his quick wit, unforgettable one-liners, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. His sense of humor, especially during hard times, and often at wildly inappropriate moments, brought comfort and laughter to everyone around him. His presence was steady, strong, and deeply rooted in love for his family and friends. He is survived by his sister, Barbara Micgiel, and her husband, Mark; and by his beloved nieces and nephews: Andrea Fox and her daughter Veda Knutson, Angus Fox and his partner Sarah Ridingsword, and Antonina Fox; Michael Micgiel and his wife, Katie; Matthew Micgiel and his wife, Tara; Marissa Micgiel and his most adored cousin Wanda Muller. He also leaves behind many cherished friends who he loved like family. He was predeceased by his parents, Marian and Boleslawa Gajewski, and his sister, Renata Fox. Arrangements are being handled by Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home of Holyoke. Graveside services will be held on Monday, June 23, beginning promptly at 11:00 a.m. at Mater Dolorosa Cemetery in South Hadley, Massachusetts, with a celebration of life to follow. Please dress in something comfortable and cool, it’s going to be extremely hot. In lieu of flowers, donations in George’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice, to your Harley fund or your bourbon collection. Remember: we’re not here for a long time, just a good time.