George F. “Skip” Garrett of Interlaken passed away at the Hospicare Residence on Thursday, December 19, 2019. He was born in Ithaca son of the Barbara F. Garrett and the late John W. Garrett, Jr. Skip graduated from Trumansburg High School and the Rochester Business Institute. As a teenager he competed in rodeos winning many ribbons. He had many interests throughout his life including football, scuba diving, water skiing (he once skied the length of Cayuga Lake) and he loved racing snowmobiles with the boys. Skip was an avid NASCAR enthusiast and attended several races up and down the east coast. Due to his many years at the “Garrett School of Grace & Charm” he had a great sense of humor and made friends easily but stood his ground when needed. Skip married Joy Covert and proudly fathered their two daughters, Angela (Jim) Miller of Liverpool, NY and Krista (Jeff) Williams of Central Square, NY; grandchildren, Lynette (Pat) Lee and Ricky (Clarissa) and great grandson, Ivan Williams. Answering the call from Uncle Sam, Skip proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. He was awarded many medals for his heroism including being the recipient of the Purple Heart when he was wounded in action. Following his honorable discharge from active duty Skip began his 28 year career with the Ithaca Fire Department as an EMT/Firefighter. Skip lost his loving companion of twenty plus years, Trudy Thurman. Together they raised their son, William W. Garrett. Following Trudy’s death Skip raised their son the only way he knew how, HARDCORE! And it paid off. Trudy’s family will also miss him, Ted (Heather) Thurman and grandchildren, Christian and Levi. He was the best big brother to his affectionately named “twisted sister”, Sheryl (Ed Haight) Garrett; nephew, Garrett Mayo and his children, Shawn and Cameron Mayo. Skip also leaves behind many extended family, loved ones, friends and his canine companion, Bailey. Never one to end a visit, chat, or call with goodbye, his parting word was always….Later! In keeping with his wishes there will be no public services, but he did agree to a family and friends celebration which will be announced in the spring. Bangs Funeral Home will be assisting with Skip’s final journey. The family wishes to thank anyone involved in his final care a huge, heartfelt “thank you”