George H. Vandermissen

He was born on September 21, 1950 in Escanaba, son to Hubert and Lillian (Harris) Vandermissen. George was raised in Wilson and graduated from Bark River Harris School in 1968. He then attended Bay College for vocational welding in 1969.

George was employed with Harnischfeger until their closure and then spent many years at Pinecrest Medical Care Facility, retiring as their maintenance manager.

On September 20, 1985, George married Leann Johnson in Dickinson County.

He was a lifelong member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Bark River.

George shared his life, talents, and wisdom with all who knew him – with passion. Everyone loved him for it. He was willing to help anyone who was in need. He had the ability to fix and build just about anything. George’s welding, mechanical, electrical, and carpentry skills will be remembered by all he shared them with. The full display of his talents are embodied-in the lifelong dream of the fully self- contained camp that he and his right hand partner in design, his wife “Sweet Pea”, Leann built. Along the way, all who loved him helped to achieve the completion of the dream. Camp was a place they built for an escape, but also for family and friends to enjoy. He loved wildlife, hunting, hunting stories, and sharing game camera photos. He grew pumpkins for the children, tomatoes, and rutabagas. He loved his family and valued friendships.

George was a man who never stopped working…never stopped loving…never stopped going…and is right now looking over us planning his next project.

Among survivors include his children, Scott (Bonnie) Vandermissen of Wilson, Mich., Naomi (Ross) McAllister of Oakland Twp., Mich., Carol (Tom) Tighe of Escanaba, Mich., Ben (Ivey) Vandermissen of Great Falls, MT, Sarah (Phil) Hernandez of Lenox Twp., Mich., and Josh Vandermissen of Escanaba; grandchildren, Stephanie, Rachael, Jonathan, Zachary, Nichole, Marianne, Graesen, Ganen, Gieren, Casey, Brady, Tommy, Michael, Samuel, Phillip, Lucca, Leo, Hugo, and Oscar; two great grandchildren, James and Abigail; siblings, David (Joyce) Vandermissen, Catherine Vandermissen, Anthony Vandermissen, Theresa (John) Tegen, Maria (Monte) DeGrave, Joseph (Marilyn) Vandermissen, and John (Kathleen) Vandermissen; and several beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to George’s parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Edward Vandermissen; infant sister, Mary Lillian Vandermissen; sister-in-law, Mary Catherine Vandermissen; and brother-in-law, James Clements.

Visitation will be on Friday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Bark River. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 1 p.m. with Rev. Darryl Pepin officiating. Burial will be in the Bark River Twp. Cemetery. At the conclusion of the burial, a meal will be served in the church hall. In lieu of flowers a memorial will be determined at a later date.

A message of condolences may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.