Obituary of George Wiersma

George B. Wiersma February 27, 1918 January 9, 2007 George B. Wiersma, 88, of High Street in Dowagiac, passed away at Dowagiac Nursing Home on Tuesday, January 09, 2007. George was born on February 27, 1918 to the late Sebie and Grace (Fletcher) Wiersma in Zeeland, Michigan On July 24, 1950 George married the love of his life Genevieve Plummer at a ceremony in Indiana. George graduated from high school and then decided to continue on to Hope College and Michigan State University where he earned his bachelors in Forestry. In April of 1942 George volunteer enlisted in the US Navy and by September 1st of the same year he was commissioned officer. While in the Navy George was part of the largest naval battle to date in our history, the Battle for Leyte Gulf, in the South Pacific. George was an officer on board the USS Petrof Bay during that battle against the Japanese. He was also recognized for his service in the battle of Iwo Jima and Okinawa Gunto in 1945. For his strength and service he received numerous awards. After being discharged from the Navy George got a job working for the Soil and Conservation Services in Cass County as a Soil Technician. After 32+ years of service there he had made many friends and helped out many local farmers and community members and decided it was time to retire. George is preceded in death by his parents and wife Genevieve. He is survived by his Son George (Nancy) Wiersma of Dowagiac, Daughter Graceen (Dick) Hunsburger of Vandalia, Sister Lila Salisbury of St. Joseph 3 grandchildren and 5 great grand children. A family graveside service will be held on Friday, January 12, 2007 at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens with military honors at 11:00 am.