George N. Sepetys, 85, passed away April 20, 2022 surrounded by family at his home in Brentwood, Tennessee the result of complications from a fall related to Parkinson’s disease. George was born April 25, 1936 in Kaunas, Lithuania, the son of the late Jonas and Meta (Veinsreideris) Sepetys. He is preceded in death by his loving wife Phyllis Sepetys and is survived by his sister Ruta Allen; children Kristina (WB Peale), John (Jennifer), and Ruta (Michael Smith); and grandchildren, Charlotte and William Peale, and Andrew and Noah Faber.
George fled Lithuania with his family amidst the Soviet occupation during World War II. He spent nine years living in refugee camps before immigrating to the United States in 1949, settling first in New York City before moving to Detroit, Michigan, where he spent most of his life. He graduated from Michigan State University in 1960 with a B.A. in Fine Arts. While at Michigan State, he played four years of varsity soccer on the inaugural team at the school, which was composed mainly of post-war immigrants. Coached by Gene Kenney, the team was undefeated for three years. He continued to play soccer well into his 60s as a proud member of Sport Club 24, and also coached high school soccer.
Following college and military service, George had a colorful career spanning fifty years leading the graphic design and corporate identity divisions of several companies he founded in Detroit, including Sepetys & Associates and the Comark Group—a subsidiary of Franco Public Relations Group. His firms provided art and design to a range of entities from Ford Motor Company to the Detroit Lions and the US Olympic Committee. He served on councils and boards and was an officer in the Chamber of Commerce of Nolensville, Tennessee after he and his wife retired to Tennessee to be closer to their children.
George was a classic gentleman with a wonderful sense of humor who loved the game of business and played it well. He was a mentor to many, an eternal optimist, and a loving and devoted father. He will be missed.
The family would like to express their deep gratitude to the staff at the Somerfield Health Center at the Heritage and also Aveanna Hospice for their extraordinary kindness and support. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests honoring George as he honored and celebrated life—with a toast (or two) and the sharing of memories, stories, and laughter.
