On February 20, 2024, my father-in-law, George Kimes, passed away. He was 98 years old.

George was born on October 22, 1925. He grew up in Columbus, Ohio. Upon turning 18, he joined the Navy and served during WWII as a radioman on the USS Montour in the Pacific theater. After his discharge, he returned to Ohio and attended Franklin University. Eventually, he met Barbara Lewis, the love of his life. They were married on Valentine's Day in 1952 and remained devoted to each other for the next 61 years. They had two children, my wife, Linda, and her younger brother, Bruce. George had four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and one on the way.

My father-in-law retired from the FAA in 1985. He then had more time to pursue his personal interests. He particularly enjoyed woodworking, and he was a skilled craftsman. Over the years, he made many beautiful pieces that were always given as gifts. He had no interest in making something for money. For him, the satisfaction was in the creation of the work and the joy it brought to those who received it.

George was a good man in the truest sense. He was the most generous person I have ever known. He was not only generous with money but also with his time. My father-in-law was someone you could always count on. No matter the situation or need, he was there to help and support you.

But above all else, George loved his family. He would do anything for them because they were the center of his world. On his last birthday, he was thrilled and deeply moved that all his loved ones gathered together to celebrate his life.

Although he endured increasing health issues over the last year, my father-in-law faced them with the same courage he displayed when confronting other challenges. He didn't complain. It was not in his nature. He simply persevered.

The final stages of his life serve as a lesson for us all. Each time we interact with an older person, we should treat them with the respect they deserve. Even though they may seem sick, weak, or confused, we have no idea what they've done, what they've accomplished, or what a difference they've made during their time on earth. No matter how fragile their health becomes, they have the right to live with dignity.

The sad reality is that every day we lose more and more WWII veterans just like George. And with the passing of each individual, a part of history goes with them. Collectively, they have rightly been called The Greatest Generation. My father-in-law certainly lived up to that title, not only through his service to the country but through the kind of life he lived for almost a century.

Although the pain of losing him will be felt most intensely by those who knew him best, when a man like George leaves this world, we are all diminished.

We will always love him and miss him.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, February 22 at 10:00am in Bethany Cemetery.