George Lyle Wood's Obituary
Big Rapids - Longtime area businessman George L. Wood, 97, passed away Saturday, December 26, 2020, at Evergreen Terrace in Big Rapids.
He was born January 3, 1923, in Jackson, the son of George and Francis (Counter) Wood, and graduated from Jackson High School. During World War II, George served with the U.S. Army, and saw action in the European Theatre and the Philippines.
On September 14, 1943, George married Florence L. Franck, and the couple moved to Big Rapids following his discharge. For several years, George was the sales rep for International Harvester, until he and his brother-in-law "Tuffy" Franck purchased the Hudson dealership in Big Rapids. Shortly thereafter, they acquired the Chevrolet dealership and Franck and Wood Chevrolet operated for many years on the corner of Maple and State Streets in Big Rapids until they retired.
George was a longtime active member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church, including serving on the Board of Elders and as a Sunday School Teacher. He was the former president of the Big Rapids Jaycees, served for many years on the Board of Directors for First National Bank & Trust, and also was a Trustee for Mecosta County General Hospital. In his earlier years, George was also instrumental in fund-raising efforts for the new St. Peter's Lutheran Church, and the Mecosta County Courthouse.
George was preceded in death by Florence on May 21, 2005, and his daughter Cynthia Schuberg on September 9, 2018. Surviving are his son-in-law Gary Schuberg of Big Rapids; his grandson Bruce (Pennie) Schuberg of California; his granddaughter Melissa Ann Horstman of Cadillac; his great-grandchildren Ashley (Cole) Stadler, and Nicholas and Marlee Horstman; and several nieces and nephews. George was also preceded in death by his grandson-in-law Jon Horstman, and his brothers Richard and Kenneth.
Graveside services will be held in Spring of 2021 at Highland View Cemetery, where George's remains will be laid to rest next to Florence's. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made for the St. Peter's Lutheran Church Endowment Fund or to Grace Hospice.
Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
What’s your fondest memory of George?
What’s a lesson you learned from George?
Share a story where George's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with George you’ll never forget.
How did George make you smile?