The Government of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has announced the death of vice president Yosiwo Palikkun George. George was 81.
Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia, Yosiwo Palikkun George, has died aged 81. Photo: US Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Carla Burdt: https://www.dvidshub.net/image/2022289
In the announcement of his passing the FSM Government said vice president George "exemplified, in his personal and professional life, the FSM's foreign policy of being a friend to all and an enemy to none, and extending to all peoples and nations peace, friendship, cooperation, and love in our common humanity".
Born in Kosrae, on 24 July, 1941, George attended the College of Guam before transferring to the University of Hawaii on a scholarship. He also participated in a student-exchange programme at the University of New Mexico and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1969.
His career began with the Pohnpei Transportation Authority, where he served as an engineer. He also worked as a teacher and as a social security manager before becoming the first lieutenant governor of Kosrae in 1979.
George ran for the seat of Governor of Kosrae in the early 1980s and served in that position from 3 January, 1983 until 14 January, 1991, after which he was appointed to serve as the FSM's ambassador to the United Nations.
A four-year stint serving as a senator in the 10th FSM Congress followed and George was subsequently appointed chief justice of Kosrae's Supreme Court, a position he served in until 2006.
He served as vice president of the FSM from May 2015, in the nation's 19th and 20th terms of congress.
The FSM Government said President David Panuelo would present a proclamation declaring a national mourning period in honour of the late vice president.
