George Henry Arscott

George was born in Hilo Hawaii, July 20, 1923 as the only child of Alfred William and Ann (Bray) Arscott. His parents immigrated from England to Hawaii and he spent his youth on Ookala sugar plantation, west of Hilo. During this period, he developed an interest in poultry through the 4-H program. He raised Silky Bantams as a hobby and had a flock of egg producing chickens for which he developed a market on the plantation. Beginning with the seventh grade he attended Iolani Episcopal boarding school in Honolulu. In 1939, his parents moved to Eugene OR and entered the poultry business. He followed in 1940 and graduated from Eugene High School in 1941.

In 1942, George started military electronic training and serviced radar installations for the 1061st Signal Company, 442nd Troup Carrier Group, 9th US Army Air Force. He served in England, France and Germany. He was honorably discharged a Staff Sargent in 1946. He was recalled in 1950 for service in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict and discharged in 1951.

In 1946, George used the GI Bill, and enrolled at Oregon State College, Department of Poultry Husbandry, earning a B.S. degree in 1949. He then went to University of Maryland, earning a M.S. degree in 1950. After one year of service in the US Air Force, he completed his Ph.D. degree in Poultry Nutrition in 1953.

In 1950, George met his future wife Elizabeth (Betty) Jane McGeary on a blind date through friends. They were married in 1953 in Betty’s hometown of Leechburg PA. They were married 63 years until Betty’s passing in 2016.

George returned to Oregon State in 1953 as an Assistant Professor in Poultry Husbandry. During his 34 years at Oregon State, he moved through the ranks, becoming Head of the Department of Poultry Science and retiring in 1988 as Professor Emeritus of Poultry Science. He published extensively in the areas of poultry nutrition and management, taught numerous courses in Poultry Science and worked with the Oregon poultry industry. He was a member of numerous professional organizations, a Fellow of the Poultry Science Association and elected to the Oregon Poultry Hall of Fame.

During retirement George volunteered as a poultry specialist in many parts of the world. Betty often joined him. George and Betty also traveled extensively for pleasure. He was an avid tennis player, lawn/carpet bowler, and bridge player. George was a loyal friend who treasured lifelong connections to friends and family. Many remember his stories of worldwide experiences brought to life by his wry sense of humor.

George is survived by sons John (Janet) and Bill, grandson Phillip and numerous relatives in England and Canada.

A private memorial has already been held. George was buried with Full Military Honors at Willamette National Cemetery. The family would like to thank Willamette View Retirement Community for their support.