State Representative Todd Stephens recently paid tribute to the late George Saurman, a former member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1980-94, who also served as the mayor and borough council president of Ambler. Saurman passed away on October 3rd at the age of 96.

A longtime resident of Ambler, Saurman graduated from Upper Darby High School and Ursinus College. He also served with the 65th Army Infantry Division in the European Theater in World War II from 1944-46.

“I first met George when I interned in his legislative office as a college student,” said Stephens. “Seeing him interact with constituents and the passion he had to make the Commonwealth a better place to call home, left an indelible mark on me. The experience was so impactful I changed my college studies to government and ultimately sought to become a state representative like George.

“The friendship I had with him was something I will always cherish. He was a mentor and someone who was always pushing me to be a better legislator and fight the good fight,” continued Stephens.

Saurman was actively involved in the Ambler Kiwanis Club, the Montco SAAC, the Ambler Chamber of Commerce, American Cancer Society, American Trauma Society, Wissahickon School Authority and Calvary United Methodist Church. Saurman also helped start Rising Sun Youth Services at the Ambler Theatre and the Senior Games of Montgomery County. 

“Even in retirement, George never rested,” said Stephens. “He continued to be highly active in the community and authored three books during his lifetime. He is a shining example of how enriching a life of public service and community commitment can be.”

Saurman is survived by his four married children, Nancy Ruane (Jim), Richard (Jane), George W. (Carla), and Robert (PJ), plus eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren as well as his sister-in-law, Nancy Leard.

Photo: Office of State Representative Todd Stephens