George Jay Pepper's Obituary
Stanwood - George Jay Pepper, 85, passed away Sunday, February 19, 2023, at his home on the Muskegon River in Stanwood, MI.
He was born May 23, 1937, at the family home in Cutlerville, Michigan, the son of Laverne J. and Thelma Louise (Moore) Pepper.
George graduated from Kelloggsville High School in 1956, where he was captain of the football and track teams: he was also named Prettiest Eyes and Best Hair, along with Prom King. After graduating, George enlisted in the Army Corps of Engineers from 1958-1962 where he dedicated his time to our country as a Demolition Engineer in Germany. Following his honorable discharge, George served with the Grand Rapids Police Department for 35 years, ending his career holding the rank of Sergeant. He was the head of the first Dive and Recovery Team for the GRPD. He was immensely proud of his service to the Grand Rapids Community.
George enjoyed riding motorcycles, whether it was his Harley while on duty or on racetracks, dirt trails, or ice racing. He was awarded many trophies over the years. In his later years George enjoyed boating on the Muskegon River, woodworking and carving walking sticks. He was a cofounder of the Dilly Wacker Motorcycle Club. The club had many trips & activities, which included fund raising for Gilda's House. He appreciated his friendship with his many neighbors. George was a master at telling stories of his many adventures, and always had the best punchlines. Above all, his most treasured times were those spent with his family.
He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Irina Anke (Todtenhaupt) Pepper; his children, Christine Lee (John) McCarthy, John Frances McCarthy V, Lisa Marie (Michael) Warren, Nicholas Joseph Warren, Maxwell Jay Warren; their mother, Frances Clark Pepper; stepson, Derek L. (Wuanda) Bird; grandsons, Ethan and Jacob Bird; siblings, Marjorie (Ken) McBride, Beverly (Ken) Tanis, John J. (Sue) Pepper. George was preceded in death by his parents, his son Michael Jay Pepper, and stepson Doug Bird.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 15, 2023, with visitation one hour prior, at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 6393 Belmont Ave, Belmont MI 49306. A celebration of life will follow the service. Memorial contributions in George's name may be made to Gilda's House, 1806 Bridge St. NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
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