Filmmaker, photographer, teacher, inspiration, friend, brother, uncle, Jorge --- George. I’ve heard my Uncle George be called a lot of things throughout his life, and none of them really did justice to the impact he had on people. When I was 15 years old, George Argento convinced me that I could do anything with a camera in my hands. He opened my eyes to the world of people, creation, love, beauty, and community. He taught me how to shatter artificial barriers. He showed me that you can create with one another through art, even if you can’t through words. Along with his wife, my Aunt Ellim, they spread joy, kindness, and two unique laughs that always left you smiling.

Early in the morning, on February 12th, we lost them both to a devastating house fire. Yulan Fire Department did everything they could and worked till the break of dawn to put the fire out, but George and Ellim were unable to escape their home. After a lifetime of living and traveling from New York City, Korea, the Dominican Republic, and everywhere in between, George and Ellim were spending their slower days in Upstate New York. George had been recovering from major heart surgery and trying to make ends meet these past few years.

With insufficient financial stability toward the end, the family is struggling to find the means to provide a service for George and Ellim. By contributing, you would be helping the family put together a service worthy of George and Ellim’s legacy and impact. The funds would go toward funeral services and any help for his remaining family through this tragic time. George and Ellim didn’t have children of their own, but they built a family all over the world. I’m proud to have had the opportunity to learn, love, and grow with my Aunt and Uncle. Thank you for any support in putting these two souls to rest.

Update: As we continue to mourn George and Ellim's passing, it is with an even heavier heart that we said goodbye to George's sister, Anita, on Tuesday. She continued her battle with cancer and we were hoping she would be able to attend the Celebration, unfortunately, her fight is over and she will instead be added to the Celebration. She is survived by her daughter Tiffany, and my father, Joseph Argento, who now mourns the loss of both of his siblings. We know with time healing will come. We continue to ask for any donations you can as we hold up our family during this dark time.