George E. Walton

Jun 7, 1949 -

Jan 9, 2021

George Walton, owner of Gold & Diamond Co., died on Jan. 9, 2021, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.

George was in the jewelry business for almost 55 years. His first job was working at a small jewelry store in his hometown of Cherry Hill, N.J. After moving to Alaska, he opened Gold & Diamond Co. in the Geneva Woods Mall in 1975, and moved to the current location at Old Seward and Tudor in 1983. He had many longtime loyal customers and helped many generations of families with everything from engagement rings to 50th anniversary gifts.

Every November, George hosted the Gold & Diamond Co. anniversary party which brought jewelry and people in from all over the world. It was a tradition that his customers looked forward to every year.

Throughout the years he served on the board of many organizations, including Alaska Pacific University and Life Alaska. Life Alaska held special meaning to him since he was the recipient of an organ donation in 1998.

He gave generously to many organization and charities over the years, from the Catholic Charity Ball to the Anchorage Glacier Pilots.

George was preceded in death by his son, Brian; his parents, Jim and Marge Walton; and his sister, Ann Lowder. He is survived by his son, George Jr. and granddaughter, Cybelle of Portland, Ore.; his daughter, Marissa (Billy) and granddaughter Ashtyn of Olathe, Kan.; his daughter, Monica of Seattle, Wash.; his caregiver, Ashley; and his two longtime, employees Jill and Cheri.

The family would like to thank all the medical professionals who helped care for George – especially Dr. Roland Gower whose kind and compassionate care will never be forgotten. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, there will no service at this time. The family hopes to have a Celebration of Life for George sometime this summer.

Donations made be made to Life Alaska or the American Cancer Society.