John Charles George, Sr.

John Charles George, Sr., 82 of North Mankato, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato surrounded by his loving family after a longtime battle with cancer. He is at peace with no more pain or worries.

 Memorial service will be 3pm, Sunday, September 18, 2016 at Northview ~ North Mankato Mortuary (2060 Commerce Drive, North Mankato) with visitation starting at 1pm. Following the service, military honors will be provided. The family prefers memorials to Blue Earth Nicollet County Humane Society (BENCHS).

 John was born in Mankato on February 4, 1934, to Edward and Jenny (Abdo) George. From 1950-1954, he served in the United States Marines. On September 24, 1955, he married Marilyn Spence in Mankato. Over the years, John worked for many local construction companies and was a member of the local 132.

John enjoyed ice fishing on Madison Lake, playing cards with family and friends, spending time with his grandchildren, and time at the lake. John was known to have a big heart and loved his pets, was sometimes a jokester, and was always there for family.

 John is survived by his wife of 61 years, Marilyn; children, Cindy Petersen of St. Peter, John George, Jr. of North Mankato, Teri (Kevin) Wandersee of Garden City, Lisa (Steve Anderson) George of Mankato, and Michelle (Earl Abeyta) George of Silverthorne, CO; grandchildren, Ron (Mallory), Melissa (Jeff), John (Leora), Bobbie Jo (Steve), Jamie (Ben), Eric (Emily), Tyler, Nicholas, and Travis; 10 great-grandchildren; siblings, Jim of Shakopee, Joe (Donna) of St. Peter, Barbara (Robert) Schmidt of Mankato, and Henry of Owatonna; and many nieces, nephews, and beloved dog, Koko.

 He is preceded in death by his parents; grandsons, Christopher and Justin; parents-in-law, Lois and Trellis Spence; and many beloved pets.