George Lawrie, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, veteran, and friend to many, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.
George proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, carrying with him the values of dedication, hard work, and service throughout his life.
George shared a beautiful life with his loving wife, Ginger Lawrie. Together they celebrated 65 years of marriage and built a life filled with love, hard work, and family. Their greatest blessing was the family they created together — 7 children and a legacy that grew to include 81 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Through every season of life, George and Ginger faced challenges, created memories, and built a family they were proud of.
George was a man with a kind heart, gentle smile, and hands that could fix just about anything. If something was broken, everyone knew who to call — George. Whether it was a home project, a repair, directions when someone was lost, or simply a helping hand, George was always there. He remodeled homes, repaired what others thought couldn’t be fixed, and taught his family the importance of hard work, patience, kindness, and taking care of one another.
When George wasn’t working on a project or helping someone else, he enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved spending time outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. The quiet moments, stories, and memories made along the way were something he treasured and shared with those he loved. More than anything, George loved his family. His greatest legacy isn’t found in the things he fixed or the houses he worked on — it is found in the family he helped create, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely.
Family gatherings were always special, and anyone who knew George knew his famous line when the evening was winding down: “Well, I’ve got paperwork to do.” Sometimes there was paperwork waiting… sometimes there wasn’t — but everyone knew with a smile that it was George’s way of saying it was time to head home.
The children of George would like to extend a special thank you to their mother, Ginger. For 65 years she stood by his side as his wife, partner, and best friend. Through these last years, months, and days, she continued to show her love through her care, dedication, and devotion to him. The comfort, strength, and commitment she gave George throughout his journey is something we will forever be grateful for.
The family would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Ari and Gina, George’s caretakers, for the kindness, compassion, and care shown to George during this journey. Your support, patience, and the comfort you brought him will never be forgotten. A special thank you to the VA and hospice team for their guidance, support, and compassionate care, not only for George, but for our entire family during this difficult time.
George spent his life taking care of others, fixing what was broken, serving his country, and building a beautiful life with the people he loved most. His tools may be set down, but the love he built, the lessons he taught, and the memories he created will live on forever.
George leaves behind his beloved wife, Ginger, and their children: Dawn, Lori, George (Deb), Bill (Christine), Shelly, Brenda (Shannon), and Melissa (Kevin). He also leaves behind his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who will continue to carry on his love and legacy.
George was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Ginger’s parents; his sisters, Sally and Judy; his sons-in-law, Rodney and Mathew; and other loved ones who passed before him.
A mass of Christian burial will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, N4887 WI-17, Merrill, WI 54452. Visitation will take place from 10:00 am until the services at the church. Burial and military honors will follow the mass. John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences and words of remembrance may be left at www.honorone.com.
And now, with a smile and a heart full of love, we can almost hear George saying one last time…
“Well, I’ve got paperwork to do now.”
