RIO RANCO, N.M. — George V. Garnache, Jr., 67, of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, died Thursday, July 5 after a short battle with cancer.

George was raised in Biddeford where he attended St. Mary’s School and graduated from Biddeford High School in 1968. He grew up in Hill’s Beach with his brother and three sisters, running around the beach, clamming, and lobstering.

George worked for almost 50 years as sous chefs and executive chefs up and down the eastern seaboard. He met the love of his life Sally while working in Missouri in 1975. They would have celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on July 8. George adored his two children, Rebecca and Chris, who often say they hit the “parent lottery.”

George and Sally owned and operated Garnache’s Soup’or Sandwich in Biddeford from 1986 to 1996. They then moved to Rio Rancho where George worked for 17 years at the country club in Rio Rancho as Executive Chef.

George loved to spend time with his family, play cribbage, and golf. He was always quick with a mischievous grin and made new friends wherever he went.

He is survived by his wife Sally of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, daughter Rebecca of Chicago, Illinois, son Chris of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, mother Pauline Garnache of Biddeford, sisters Patricia Rhames of Biddeford, Kathleen Proulx of Jonesport, Nancy Garnache of Biddeford, numerous nephews and nieces, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father George Sr., brother Stephen, and two infant sisters.

George’s life will be celebrated at a private service in Rio Rancho, New Mexico and in Biddeford in August.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Kindred Hospice in Albuquerque or The American Cancer Society.