George G. Near

George Near, age 66, went to be with his Lord and Savior Tuesday, June 21, 2022. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon Near. He will be lovingly remembered by his siblings Carlisle “Curley” (Barb) Near, Christine Near; stepchildren Becky (Don) Baker, Billy Webber; grandchildren Dominik, Haven, Donavan; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

George grew up in this area and made many friends here. On August 3, 1994 he married the love of his life, Sharon (Sprague), after many years of courtship. After that time, George became part of the Gun Lake tribal community, of which his late wife Sharon was a member. He worked on security detail at the construction site during phase one. He went on to work in the kitchen at the casino before going to pursue one of his real passions, that is, timbering. George had been around and knew a lot about trees and wood. George would also get very excited about his hunting for morels and eating them! Also, George loved the Lord, and he loved to sing hymns up front before the congregation at his church. He and Pastor Todd were given the name “socks and boots” for their Sunday duos at Bradley. (George: Socks, Todd: Boots) George was strong in his faith and gave praises for the work of Jesus of Nazareth. George will be missed by many.

Funeral Services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, June 24, 2022 with an hour of visitation prior at Luella Collins Community Center, 419 126th Ave., Shelbyville. In honor of George, and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bradley Indian Mission Church. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.kubiakcookwayland.com.