George J. Woons

10/26/1940

09/25/2022

George J. Woons, age 81 of Grand Rapids, passed away Sunday, September 25, 2022. He was preceded in death by his father, Alois Woons; mother, Teckla Woons; father-in-law, Arthur Bal; mother-in-law, Arlene Bal; and brothers-in-law, Arthur Bal Jr., and George Stockero. George is survived by his wife, Beverly A. Woons; children, George J. (Sandra) Woons Jr., Lisa (Bob) Dykstra, Brad (Kim) Woons; grandchildren, Jessica (Dan) Zastowny, Jack (Samantha) Woons, Matt Woons, Olivia Woons, Emilee Woons; great-grandchildren, Logan Woons, Maddison Woons, Charlotte Zastowny; sister, Barb Lindberg Stockero; sisters-in-law, Charlene Bal, Mary (Ed) Cody; brothers-in-law, Bobby (Nancy) Bal, David Bal, Randy (Mary) Bal, Jim (Honey) Bal; aunt, Betty Bal; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved puppy, Maddie and grand puppy, Gibbs. George received his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Northern Michigan University; master’s degree in elementary from NMU; and Ph.D. in curriculum and administration from Michigan State University. He started his career as a teacher in the Upper Peninsula. George served four years as principal of Breton Downs Elementary School in East Grand Rapids, then four years as assistant superintendent for instruction for East Grand Rapids Schools. In 1979 he became associate superintendent for educational services for Kent Intermediate School District. He was named superintendent of Kent ISD in 1984. George retired from Kent ISD on June 30, 2001. He was active in a variety of civic organizations, enjoyed fishing, hunting, MSU sports, and Detroit Sports. George was born in Stambaugh in the Upper Peninsula, and he never lost his love for all things U.P. Visitation will be held 6-8pm Thursday, September 29, 2022, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 with a rosary at 7:30pm. Mass of Christian Burial will take place 11:00am Friday, September 30, 2022 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 1935 Plymouth Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 with visitation one-hour prior. Rev. Scott Nolan presiding. Private Interment at Cascade Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

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One Response

  1. Rest In Peace my cousin and dear friend. I so enjoyed our times hunting and fishing in Alaska and the UP. The times spent discussing the issues of the day always made for lively and enjoyable conversation. A piece of our lives is missing and we can say without hesitation the George lived a full life. In pure George fashion “So long Kemosabe!”

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