Vermont Business Magazine Vermont Republican Party Chair Deb Billado issued the following statement after learning of the passing of long time Republican leader and legislator George Shiavone. While Primary Day can be a buzz of excitement this year Republicans were sobered by the loss of one of their most beloved Republicans, Representative George Schiavone.
Representative George Schiavone
Schiavone was elected in 1992 by the people of Shelburne and served until he stepped down in 2005 to better fulfill his duties to the Republican Party as their National Committeeman, a position he held until 2012. Considering George's service as a model legislator for Vermont Republicans he was a natural and fitting choice for the annual George Schiavone Legislator of the Year Award.
George was a down-to-earth, eager-to-laugh friend to everyone he met, on both sides of the aisle. He was always one of the Republican Party's biggest cheerleaders who found himself attending nearly every pancake breakfast and spaghetti dinner hosted by any Republicans within driving distance.
He also served as the Town Chair for the Shelburne Republicans and was involved as a regular member until the day he died.
In addition to serving his party, George was also a devout servant of his community. He was an active member of the Shelburne Rotary club where he often volunteered to varying degrees on several projects.
Below are a few thoughts from some of his colleagues:
VT National Committeeman, Jay Shepard
"George was truly a great man who served his Country, his State and especially his friends well. When I was elected National Committeeman after George retired, many said there is no replacing George. They were right! A mentor and a friend that I will miss."
Source: Berlin, VT--Vermont Republican Party 8.16.2020