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Severson, George Jr.

George Severson, Jr. (age 86), of Ogdensburg, passed away on August 4, 2018 at Crossroads Care Center of Weyauwega.

George Stanley Severson was born July 17, 1932 to George S. and Mabel (Gilbertson) Severson on the family farm at Ogdensburg. He was baptized and confirmed at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Iola. He graduated from Iola High School in 1950, and farmed at the homestead. George served in the U.S. Navy from 1955–1957, stationed on the repair ship Amphion in the Mediterranean. His time in the Navy was an adventure for George, in both military service and the opportunity to see other parts of the world. He visited several European countries, bringing home unique gifts for family members. After his discharge from the Navy, George returned to the farm. He discontinued farming in 1987, and was then employed by Waupaca Elevator Co., retiring in 2003. George was married to Ruth E. Garbisch on July 31, 1977. George and Ruth enjoyed photography and could be counted on to have their cameras ready at family gatherings and reunions. They liked to travel throughout Wisconsin and enjoyed trips to Florida and California. George had an interest in old cars and attended the Iola Car Show for many years. He loved the Brewers and took several bus trips to attend games. He was a loyal Packer fan, and was thrilled to have had a tour of Lambeau Field. His favorite activity in later years was attending Friday luncheons at the Central County Airport. He looked forward to the delicious meal, and befriended many pilots and locals who spend Fridays at the airport. He will be missed by his airport friends.

Survivors include his sister Dorothy Larsen of Neillsville; nieces, Tana (Frank) Schimberg of Brentwood, CA and Rhonda (Rudy) Forjan of Eustis, FL; nephew Jay (Mary Jo) Larsen of Shakopee, MN; six great-nieces/nephews; and 12 great-great-nieces/nephews. He is also survived by a brother-in-law, Reuben Garbisch of Granton, and 11 nieces/nephews of his wife Ruth, and their families: Arlene, Leonard, John, Ben, Eric, Joel, Lynell, Robert, James, Tammy, and Tommy. George was a beloved uncle and will be remembered fondly. George was preceded in death by his parents, and by his wife Ruth (2006).

Nieces Tana and Rhonda, and nephew Jay, have lasting memories of summers with Uncle George (“Junior”) on the farm, at milking time in the barn or harvest time in the fields. He worked very hard as a farmer, but always approached life with a big smile, a giggle, and a sense of humor that we adored—the best uncle anyone could have.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to neighbors: Jerry, Laura, Krystal and Carl; to airport friends: Luann and Roger, Carol and Howard, Bill, and others who assisted George and checked on him often. Because of their concern, he was able to live on the farm that he loved from birth until a few months before his death. Many thanks also to the Heartland Hospice caregivers, whose visits brightened George’s days, and to the caring staff members at Crossroads in Weyauwega, who often remarked, “He is such a sweet man.” We know!

A memorial service and celebration of George’s life will be held on Saturday, September 29, 2018, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Iola, with visitation at 10:00 a.m. and service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be directed to the Central County Airport, or to Heartland Hospice, 3233A Business Park Dr., Suite 203, Stevens Point, WI 54482. Voie Funeral Home of Iola is assisting the family with arrangements.

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