Willard George

In Loving Memory of Willard W. George

Willard Wagner George, age 89, passed away on March 14, 2024 surrounded by family. Will was born on March 24, 1934 in Canton, Ohio. He is survived by his children Diane (Bob) Simpson, Kirk (Deeann) George, and Jennifer (Bruce) Vernier, nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren, and sister-in-law, Jane Fleenor. Will is preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Norma J. George who passed on December 13, 2021, his parents, Lester and Velma George, brothers, Samuel “Jay” George, Lester “Junior” George, Kenneth George, and sisters, Betty McKnight, Geraldine McDonald, and Janice Pelger.

Will was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He treasured every moment that he got to spend with Norma up until her passing. He was a hardworking, generous man of integrity. He joined the United States Army as a Paratrooper and served in Germany until 1956. Will could often be found on the golf course or working in his yard while enjoying a Yuengling. He loved to sit on the swing in the sun with Norma. He enjoyed his time in his workshop, working with wood.

During his forty years as a long-haul truck driver, he travelled all over the country. He could get just about anywhere without a map or GPS. He would often give turn-by-turn directions to his family members for any destination they might be traveling. He and Norma would drive to Brownsville, Texas, and Diane’s home in Florida, where they wintered for many years.

Will always supported his three kids to fully reach their individual goals. Growing up they took numerous trips with him in his semi and have fun memories of adventurous family vacations. Will enjoyed time with his grandkids teaching them how to properly swing a golf club and drive his lawn mower. He hosted many sleepovers in his living room, where his grandkids slept on their patio cushions spread across the floor. The kids always knew when it was time to come back to the house from their adventures in the neighborhood when they heard Will’s loud whistle.

Will’s grandkids knew that they could count on him and Norma to be their biggest cheerleaders in the stands. He was always up for an adventure whether it be fishing in Florida, having a shot of Sambuca, or enjoying a beer or two on the patio in the summer. When his stroke limited his ability to converse, he enjoyed having a beer and watching football and M*A*S*H with Bruce.  

He will be deeply missed more than words can describe. We will cherish the memories spent with him and value all of the life lessons that he instilled in each of us. Calling hours will be held Wednesday, March 20, 2024, from 10am-11am with remembrance speech to follow at Paquelet-Falk Funeral Home in Louisville, Ohio. The graveside service will take place immediately following at Sunset Hills. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Will George’s name to the Life Care Fund of Copeland Oaks, 800 S. 15^th Street Sebring, Ohio 44672.