George E. Grossmann

George Edward Grossmann, 85, of Staten Island, New York, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025. Born on January 17, 1940, in Brooklyn, NY, George was the beloved son of the late George and Lillian Grossmann and the devoted brother of Barbara Chase. Raised in Cypress Hills, he graduated from St. Francis Prep High School in Greenpoint. As a boy, he loved playing baseball with the Cypress Hills Bombers, setting the tone for a life filled with teamwork, camaraderie, and enthusiasm.

After a short stint in banking, George found his true calling when he joined the FDNY in 1962. He was appointed to Squad 8 and worked in several ladder companies before being promoted to Lieutenant in 1980. George spent the last 13 years of his career in Engine 230 before retiring in 1994 after 32 years. Known for his curly hair, big mustache, and even bigger heart, George embodied the spirit of a firefighter—loyal, strong, and deeply connected to his brothers in service.

He met the love of his life, Patricia Lawrence, 37 years ago, and together they shared an inseparable bond. A loving father to Michele Bacik and Donna Lianzo, George was endlessly proud of his family, five grandchildren and three nephews. A true force of nature with an easy laugh, firm handshake, and clapping push-ups well into his 80s, George lived his life with vigor and humor.

In lieu of flowers, George's family kindly asks donations be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in his memory.

“I’ve lived a life that’s full, I traveled each and every highway, And more, much more than this, I did it my way.” – Frank Sinatra.