George Joseph Korsh, 73, of Redwood City, California, passed away peacefully at his home on June 29, 2026. A funeral service will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 106 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Carlos, CA on Friday, August 14 at 3 pm.

 George was born in San Francisco on April 9, 1953. He graduated with honors from the University of California, Berkeley, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1975 and a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science in 1976.

 George enjoyed a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years in the semiconductor industry, where he helped develop non-volatile memory technologies. He is named as an inventor on more than 20 U.S. patents. In addition to his work at cutting-edge firms such as Intel and Atmel, George also co-founded Agate Semiconductor where he played a pivotal role in R&D and patent creation. In 2006, he became registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office, and subsequently worked as a patent agent, patent prosecutor, and technical advisor for several Bay Area law firms until his retirement in 2019.

 Growing up across the street from Golden Gate Park, George developed a lifelong love of the natural world that sustained and inspired him throughout his life. Whether on camping trips— both adventurous and serene—in the Sierra Nevada and beyond, or on hiking and cycling excursions around the world, he found challenge, beauty, and wonder in nature. Although he struggled throughout his life with severe motion sickness, he refused to let it limit his experiences. Determined to share underwater exploration with close friends, he completed a scuba diving certification, exemplifying the perseverance that characterized his life. 

His love of nature was equally evident at home. He cultivated a beautiful home garden complete with a pond, cherished his mountain retreat where he found peace in every season, and relished spending time with his family and friends exploring local parks and open spaces.

 George's passion for astronomy elegantly combined his technical expertise with his endless curiosity about the universe. Using a prized telescope and sophisticated imaging equipment, he captured stunning photographs of galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and other celestial objects. Ever eager to share his enthusiasm, he sent regular updates to close friends and family, and maintained a website featuring his images, accompanied by detailed explanations of both the astronomical subjects and the techniques he used to create them (https://app.astrobin.com/u/GeOK).

 George also treasured the enduring friendships and family connections he maintained within the Russian community. He fondly remembered the adventures and laughter that grew out of Russian School, Russian holidays, and Russian folk dancing, all built on relationships that remained a meaningful part of his life. 

Above all, George was immensely proud of his son, William. He cherished the many projects they worked on together and the outings they shared, creating memories that both father and son treasured.

 George will be remembered for his intelligence, integrity, discipline, and deep appreciation for the natural world. His curiosity, generosity in sharing his knowledge, and quiet devotion to those he loved will be deeply missed. 

George is survived by his beloved wife, Kate Zaenglein Korsh, his son, William George Korsh, and his brother, Nick Korens.

 Memorial contributions may be made to the California Academy of Sciences (Tax ID 94 1156258) or Friends of Edgewood (Tax ID 94-3188191).