George Stokes

George Kinney Stokes, 95, residing in Lancaster, OH, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 at The Pickering House surrounded by loving family. He was born May 16, 1921, in Fremont, OH to George and Mary (Kinney) Stokes.

On March 18, 1950 in Upper Arlington, OH, George married Betty L. Meeder, who passed September 1, 2014 at The Pickering House. Betty was his loving wife of 64 years. George is survived by his daughter, Sue A. (Tim) Lockwood of Lancaster, OH, and sons, Dr. George G. (Peggy) Stokes of Grafton, OH and Peter K. (Julie) Stokes of Catawba Island, OH; six grandchildren, Jenny Lockwood, Megan (John) Huffman, Amy (Josh) Cooper, Alicia (JJ) Yourkiewicz, Kyle (Kylee) Stokes, Patrick Stokes; as well as six great-grandchildren. Plus, several special nieces and nephews.

George was a graduate of Fremont Ross High School, class of 1939. In 1940, he attended prep-school Blair Academy in Blairstown, NJ. His education continued at The Ohio State University from 1940-1942. He put his education on pause to serve his Country as a Veteran of World War II. From 1942 to 1945 his military service to America was in the European Theatre of Operation. He served in Northern Ireland, England, and France and was a member of the Ordinance Company where he repaired military vehicles. After the war, he continued his education at OSU, was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1949.

George was an avid swimmer and an excellent backstroker. He swam for his high school, and Blair Academy where he earned state championship honors, plus a Varsity “O” letter at The Ohio State University under the legendary coach Mike Peppe. His dedication to swimming continued as a coach at Lancaster YMCA and Lancaster High School.

His education served the Brush-Wellman, General Motors, and Anchor Hocking companies in purchasing. He later enjoyed teaching Distributive Education for Lancaster City School where he retired 1987. George guided many students beginning their careers in business, and was active in the development of job training programs.

George was an active member of First Presbyterian Church and Board of Directors for Lancaster YMCA. He participated in Charity Newsies, Junior Achievement, and United Way. He enjoyed golfing and was very proud of achieving a hole-in-one at the age of 80. Plus, as an avid woodworker he completed numerous projects and refinishing antiques.

George and Betty enjoyed their Catawba Island residence on the shores of Lake Erie for over 25 years. Together, they so adored spending quality time with family. George and Betty also spent winters in Florida near Bradenton, where they embraced valuable friendships. No matter the location, many were treated to their amazing hospitality.

The family would like to thank the many outstanding caretakers/health care professionals who worked in their home, Alternacare, Bickford of Lancaster, Lanfair Rehabilitation Center, Lanfair Physical Therapy, and Wound Clinic. The family would like to also acknowledge the wonderful care received from Dr. Chris Nickison and Mindy, Dr. Assem Houssein, Fairfield Medical Center, and Pickering House.


Caring Cremation® has taken place through the FRANK E. SMITH FUNERAL HOME. A memorial service will take place on Sunday, April 2, 2017 at the First Presbyterian Church in Lancaster at 3:00 PM. Family and friends may call one hour prior to the service at the church. A graveside celebration will take place at a later date at Oakwood Cemetery in Fremont. Memorials can be made in George’s name to either; First Presbyterian Church, 222 N. Broad St. Lancaster, OH 43130; Pickering House, 282 Sells Rd. Lancaster, OH 43130; or Honor Flight Columbus P.O. Box 12036, Columbus, OH 43212. Online condolences may be left for the Stokes family can be made at www.funeralhome.com.

Memorial Service

3:00 PM ,Sunday, April 2, 2017
First Presbyterian Church
222 N. Broad St Lancaster, OH 43130