Jose George Moreno

With broken hearts, we share the sudden and devastating loss of Jose George Moreno Jr., 47, a beloved husband, father, uncle, grandfather, brother and friend.  

Born and raised in Moses Lake, Wash., the middle son of a big family, George had two older brothers, Mike and Mark, and two younger sisters, Michelle and Olga. He took being the middle child as a challenge and never looked back. George lived a life full of movement, growth and deep connection. He grew up in the Lakeview neighborhood and later graduated from Quincy High School, where he played both basketball and baseball, already showing the competitive spirit and team loyalty that would define much of his life. From a young age, he had a fire in his soul, a love for people and a knack for making friends wherever he went. 

In 2000, his life changed with the arrival of his first daughter, Rylee. Though it was a challenging time, George found pure joy in fatherhood. He stayed active in the community playing softball, bowling long into a Thursday night and even joining a dodgeball league. (Yes, dodgeball! And yes, there were probably a few brews involved.) But every game was played with love and laughter. 

In 2002, he met the love of his life Kristin while they both were working at Old Country Buffet in Spokane, Wash. They were later married and began building their beautiful family and welcomed three more daughters: Annabelle, Scarlett and their youngest, Ivy. 

The Moreno family could often be found floating down Washington rivers, camping through long softball weekends or headed to Watershed with George in his signature cowboy hat — ready for a weekend of country music, good friends, and better drinks. 

Some of the most cherished memories were spent at Sacheen Lake with Rodger, Sheri and Rachelle — fishing, kayaking, hiking and cooking up unforgettable meals. George would throw down a tomahawk steak on the smoker, Kristin would hand you a cold drink, and their girls would offer to watch your kids so you could finally relax. The Morenos are the kind of people who made everyone feel at home, George especially. 

Professionally, George found his purpose in carpentry. After becoming a licensed journeyman, his passion grew beyond the job site. He became a fierce advocate for his union brothers and sisters, eventually being elected Vice President of Local 59, part of the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters. As he loved to say, “We’re border to border, baby!” He was the kind of leader who made you feel seen, supported, and proud to stand beside him. His powerful May Day speech on workers' rights, tax fraud, and safe job sites was one of his proudest moments. George traveled across the U.S., always spreading knowledge, building solidarity, and lifting others up. Whether it was Chalk Talk or The Delegate Duo, he was your guy! 

George was preceded in death by his loving parents, George and Mary Lou Moreno. 

He leaves behind his wife, Kristin; their beloved daughters, Rylee (Alex), Annabelle, Scarlett, and Ivy; his two grandsons, Wyatt and Jackson; his brothers, Mike (Cassandra) and Mark (Cindy); sisters Michelle (Oscar) and Olga (Brandon); and several nieces and nephews. 

He also leaves many a heartbroken community of family, friends, Liquid Courage, Rampage, and union brothers and sisters who will forever carry his spirit. George will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 

“The dream is free, but the hustle is sold separately.” — George Moreno 

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 2, 2025, beginning with a Rosary at 12:30 p.m., then Mass at 1 p.m., both at Assumption of the Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Spokane. A graveside service and reception will follow at Fairmount Memorial Park.