George E. “The Baker” Kempinski, 75 of Hanover Twp., passed away on June 14, 2026 at home surrounded by his loving family.
He was a son of the late Chester and Helen (Uczen) Kempinski. Also known to his friends as “Big George”, he was a 1969 graduate of Hanover High School where he was an outstanding athlete who excelled in wrestling and football.
George’s father founded and operated Buttonwood Bakery, Hanover Twp., and together they ran the business for 86 years, with George being the final owner/operator.
He was a member of Nebo Baptist Church, Nanticoke, Retail Bakers Association of America, and the Wyoming Valley Country Club, where he began as a caddy and later had a hole-in-one. He played on the World Poker Tour and many Black Jack tournaments and gladly donated baked goods to many local organizations.
George leaves behind his wife Sandra Kempinski, daughter Jennifer Kempinski, grandson Alexander Kempinski, who was his pride and joy, siblings Chet Kempinski and his wife Phyllis, Thomas Kempinski, Helene Yaller, and Teresa Wotherspoon and her husband Matt, Uncle George “Rx” Kempinski, Aunt Mary Kovaletski, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
George was preceded in death by his daughter Alicia, siblingsStanley and Frank, and MaryAnn Kempinski.
The family wishes to extend their heart-felt thank you to the nursing staff of Compassus Care Hospice for their excellent care of George.
The funeral will be held Friday, June 19, 2026 at 10 am at Mamary-Durkin Funeral & Cremation Services, 59 Parrish St. Wilkes-Barre. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.
Friends and family may call at the funeral home from 4-7pm on Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Those desiring may make donations to the George E. Kempinski Kids Summer Camp Fund at Nebo Baptist Church, 75 S. Prospect St., Nanticoke, PA 18634
Leave a Condolence