Obituary of George John Kolibaba

George John Kolibaba was born in Portland, Oregon on October 19, 1942 to George Valentine and Helen Mae Kolibaba. He was brother to Ray and Janice. He graduated from Benson Polytechnic High School and went on to join the Army National Guard. George met his wife and life-long love, Sharon, while roller skating at Oaks Park. They married in March 1962 and were blessed with three children, Robin, Ric and Renee. George and Sharon were married for nearly 58 years at the time of her passing in 2020. Working full time and coaching until shortly before his passing, George dedicated himself to his family, work and the sport he loved. He worked for nearly 30 years as a manager at Tektronix. Simultaneously and for more than 50 years, George was involved with The Oaks Amusement Park as a roller skater, coach, Operations Manager and CEO. George passed the art of roller skating to his family; his children and many grandchildren skated competitively. A coach at the highest level, George guided countless skaters in local, regional, national and world competitions. He was the Head Coach of the Oaks Skating Club and long-time member of the United States Amateur Confederation of Roller Skating (USAC/RS). He loved flying airplanes, taking ocean cruises, and traveling with his wife. Long after his career at Tektronix, his interest in and skill with technology persisted. He enjoyed watching sports, both collegiate and professional. George loved rollercoasters and always had to be the first to experience the newest ride at Oaks Park. George selflessly shared his wisdom, mentorship, grace, and good humor with everyone fortunate enough to know him. His unwavering dedication to his family, friends, the skaters he coached, and those who worked for him is unparalleled. He taught lessons on and off the floor and leaves behind a legacy that will last in all their hearts. George will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered. George is preceded in death by his wife, Sharon Kolibaba, and sister, Janice Ortiz. He is survived by his brother, Ray Kolibaba; children, Robin, Ric, and Renee Kolibaba; 5 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. George will be laid to rest with his wife in the Remembrance Garden at Wilhelm’s Portland Memorial.