George T Trumbull Jr.

Lansing, Michigan

George T. Trumbull, Jr. passed away October 30, 2011 after a brief illness. He leaves to mourn him his loving wife Jan Alleman of twenty-five years, two siblings Nancy and Elliot, and other family members including, Debbie, Sebastian, Emily, David, Lee, Christopher, Amy, Teresa, Tracy, Rhonda, Brenda, Kyle, Jessica, Colin, Emily, Drew, Ashton, Isaac, and Ryan; his mother-in-law, several brothers and sisters-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents, George T. Trumbull, Sr. and Florine (Elliot), a brother-in-law, and his father-in-law.

Born May 20, 1929, George’s early childhood was spent in Bloomfield Hills. A graduate of the Cranbrook School, he went on to earn a B.A. in journalism from Michigan State University where he was a Beta Theta Pi fraternity brother. After graduating from MSU, he served as a first lieutenant in the army antiaircraft artillery. In 1955, he started his career in journalism as a reporter for the Pontiac Press (now The Oakland Press), and in 1962 he was invited by former Governor George Romney, a man he greatly admired, to serve on his campaign staff and later as his assistant press secretary. He left politics in 1969 and consulted for a short time for Ernst & Ernst. He then worked for Panax Newspapers. In 1974, George made the transition from journalism to the world of public relations and athletics when he became the Midwest director of marketing and public relations for Adidas athletic shoes and apparel.

George was a lifelong member of the MSU Alumni Association, a member of the MSU Snyder Society, University Club member, and an avid football, basketball, and hockey fan. The Olympics were also his passion. He was a patron of the arts, supporting and regularly attending performances at the Wharton Center. He served on the Board of Directors of Junior Achievement, the Board of Directors of the MSU College of Communication Arts Alumni Association, and was an active member of the Rotary Club of Delta Township. George was a lifetime member of the Episcopal Church and participated in numerous other organizations.

He was known for his dignified demeanor, his creativeness, his sharp wit, his love of MSU, his passion for politics and sports, and his quest for adventure. He traveled to more than twenty-five countries including five trips to the African continent. He attended several Olympic Games, Final Fours, Big Ten Tournaments, and the Rose Bowl. He took great pride in his extensive book collection and his beautiful red corvette. He lived each day as a celebration of life.

A Celebration of George’s life will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 218 W Ottawa, Lansing on Saturday, December 3 at 11:00 am. A reception at the church will follow. In lieu of flowers, Jan asked that gifts be made to two of George’s great passions: MSU Men’s Basketball Scholarships and Wharton Center’s Seats 4 Kids program. Checks should be made out to Michigan State University and sent to University Advancement, 300 Spartan Way, East Lansing, MI 48824. Please note that your gift is in memory of George Trumbull. The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, East Lansing. On line condolences may be at www.greastlansing.com.