The family will receive guests from 5:30pm until time of Elks ceremony at 7pm, Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Visitation will continue from 10am until time of celebration of life service at 11am, Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at the funeral home. Interment will be held privately. The family respectfully asks that masks be worn during services. Memorial contributions may be given to the Elks Major Project for St. Joseph-Benton Harbor or to the family.
George was born July 8, 1952 in Watervliet to Laverne and Gwendolyn (Lowery) Rice. He was a graduate of Watervliet High School class of 1970 and went on to obtain his Bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University in 1977 with a degree in Secondary Ed & Music History. On June 6, 1981, he married Suzanne Marutz and they had two children. George worked at LECO for 30 years and was also a member of the St. Joseph Municipal Band for 45 years. George was a member of the Elks Club for many years, serving as Exalted Ruler during 1996/97, DVP 2001/02 and DDGER. He also was a commissioner on the Elks Major Project Commission as well as chairman for St. Joseph-Benton Harbor Elks Lodge #541. George was also an Eagle Scout, and served on the board of review for local Scouts transitioning to Eagle Scouts and when asked, would perform an Elks Eagle Scout ceremony. In his free time, George enjoyed grilling, swimming in his pool, and especially loved time spent with his adored granddaughter.
George is survived by his wife of 40 years, Suzanne Rice; his children, Joshua (Abbey) Rice and Gwen (Katie) Rice; his granddaughter, Eifa; his sister, Pam (Steve) Griese; and his nephews, Kyle Herrman, Justin Marutz, and Christopher Griese. He is preceded in death by his parents.