Obituaries : Robert M. George

Robert M. George, beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and community member, passed away on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, at the age of 96.

Born in Vinton, Iowa, on July 14, 1928, to Jesse M. and A. Irene (Wilson) George, Bob spent his early years in Brandon, Iowa, where his family operated George Grocery and Hardware Store. A lover of the outdoors and photography, Bob spent his youth helping at the family store, delivering newspapers, and developing photos for the school annual.

After graduating from Brandon High School in 1946, Bob pursued higher education, attending the University of Iowa and Iowa State Teachers College (now UNI), where he earned a degree in Industrial Arts in 1951. He enlisted in the Iowa National Guard, serving for 16 years and achieving the rank of First Lieutenant.

While working a summer job in Wyoming, Bob met the love of his life, Charlene Doty, and they married on July 14, 1951. Together, they began a lifelong journey of teaching, family, and service to their communities.

Bob's teaching career spanned 38 years, including establishing an Industrial Arts program in Anamosa, Iowa, and earning Iowa Teacher of the Year honors in 1967. A dedicated Scout leader, Bob guided his sons and many others in Troop 67, earning distinctions including the Silver Beaver and leading trips to Philmont Scout Ranch, multiple National Jamborees and the World Jamboree in Japan. Bob was especially proud that both of his sons earned the Eagle Scout rank. His passion for service extended to 60 years of active membership in the Anamosa Rotary Club, hosting exchange students and supporting numerous community initiatives. Bob also enjoyed pheasant, duck, goose and turkey hunting.

Bob and Charlene enjoyed 73 years of marriage filled with travel, family, and projects. Bob's skill as a craftsman was evident in his home and the homes of his family, where his handmade furniture, restored antiques and hand-crafted picture frames brought beauty and functionality. His civic pride was evident during his 16 years on the Anamosa City Council, contributing to projects like the Lawrence Community Center, Anamosa Library and Learning Center, and Streetscapes Project.

Preceded in death by his parents Jesse and Irene George, brother Richard George, in-laws Ralph and Viola Doty, brother-in-law Charles Doty, and nephew Scott Doty, Bob leaves behind a legacy of love and service.

He is survived by his devoted wife Charlene, their children Steven (Robin) George, Nancy (Jim) Miesner, and David (Susan) George; grandchildren Joseph (Katy) Anderson, Lauren (Alex) Cichowski, Sam George, Christopher George, and Patrick George.

Bob will be remembered as a man of faith, kindness, and ingenuity, whose life touched countless people. A visitation will be held on Sunday, December 29 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Goettsch Funeral Home in Anamosa. A celebration of his life service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 30 at the United Methodist Church in Anamosa, with Interment in the Riverside Cemetery, Anamosa.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Anamosa Library and Learning Center, 600 East 1st Street, Anamosa, IA 52205