Donald George, Age 88, Of Battle Creek, Lifelong Battle Creek resident and avid golfer, passed away on Tuesday, June 17, 2014, after a lengthy illness. Don was born on October 14, 1925, in Battle Creek. He graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1947, after serving three years in the U. S. Navy during World War II. Don served as an electrician on the destroyer escort Francis M. Robinson, which was the only surface ship during the war to sink a Japanese submarine. He later served in the Korean War in 1950, and afterward attended Purdue University where he studied electrical engineering. Don eventually became a time study engineer and was employed by several Michigan companies, including Post Cereal in Battle Creek, Progressive Dynamics in Marshall, Spartan Electronics in Jackson, C & F Stamping and Yamaha in Grand Rapids, TruHeat in Otsego and Gibson Refrigerator in Greenville. Don had an inventive mind, and used his vast knowledge of mechanics to tinker with his collection of Mercedes and Porsche engines in his spare time. His other passion was golf. Don was a member of Gull Lake View for over 30 years, and livened up the Friday Night League there for many years with his booming voice and good humor. Don is survived by his daughter, Dr. Terri St. John of Venice, Florida, his son, Jordan Laird of Kalamazoo, daughter-in-law, Stephanie Laird, and granddaughters Taylor and Jessah Laird. In accordance with his wishes cremation has taken place. A graveside service with full military honors will take place at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, June 24, 2014, at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Honor Guard at Fort Custer National Cemetery, where Don was a member for over ten years. Arrangements by the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. www.henryfuneralhome.org
