A memorial service for George Morris, 91, of Okoboji, will be held at 10:30 AM, Saturday, August 31, 2024, at First Lutheran Church in West Okoboji, Iowa. Visitation will begin at 9:30 am until service time at the church.
George passed away Monday, August 12, 2024, at Accura Healthcare of Spirit Lake.
George Allen Morris was born on December 12, 1932, in Cresco, Iowa. He was the youngest of six children born to Raymond and Mae (Goldy) Morris. He received his education in the Cresco Public Schools, where he participated in football, basketball, track, and school plays. George graduated from Cresco High School in 1950.
After high school graduation, George moved to Chicago, Illinois, and lived with his brother, Bob and his family, while working for Motorola Television and the Masonic Hospital. In March of 1952, George enlisted in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He was with the 93rd Tactical Hospital Unit and was honorably discharged in 1956. George then enrolled in Iowa State Teachers College (now University of Northern Iowa) and graduated with a BA in 1960. While a college student, George met Mary Joan Olson at a football game. George and Mary were married at First Methodist Church in Marshalltown, Iowa, on August 20, 1960.
George and Mary moved to northwest Iowa after their marriage, where George began a long career of thirty-three years with the Milford School System He was a junior high school science teacher and coached football and wrestling. He received his Master’s Degree in Administration from Western State College in Gunnison, Colorado, in 1974. George then continued his career with Milford Elementary School, becoming their principal in August of 1974. When Milford consolidated and became Okoboji Community Schools in 1988, George accepted the principalship at the Okoboji Middle School in Arnolds Park until his retirement in June of 1993. “I know we were put on this earth to serve one another – and that type of thing will go on…” was a quote he stated upon his departure from education.
George lived a life of active service. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to family, friends, and the community. George was a member of the American Legion Post 384 for over 50 years. He was proudly involved with Milford Kiwanis and its activities. George was a faithful member of First Lutheran Church where he regularly attended bible study and volunteered for many duties. He was an avid reader and promoted the importance libraries can do for a school and community. George also believed in remaining physically active throughout his life by taking early morning walks and swimming at the Spirit Lake YMCA. He enjoyed watching sports and cheered on the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and the Green Bay Packers.
George influenced many people throughout his lifetime, including his students, cohorts, family members, and friends. He was one of the “good guys,” who was always cordial and welcoming in his interactions. George was a provider, but was also grateful for any assistance he received. He was an excellent listener and always ended a visit with a positive feeling. His legacy of good deeds and generosity will be missed by many.
George is survived by his wife, Mary, of Milford; his sons, Kirk (Marie) of Fairmont, MN and John (Lori) of Macksburg, IA; his grandchildren, Casey (Sabrina), Cristen (Chris), Katherine (Matt), and Kevin (Katie), and great-grandchildren, Asher, Christopher, Callie Jo and Tinley, and several nephews and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Leland and Robert, and his sisters Goldie, Mary, and his brothers and sisters-in-law.
Turner Jenness Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
