Donald Millard George

Donald Millard “Duke/Duck” George, 85, of California, Missouri, passed away on April 20, 2021, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born July 13, 1935, in Lupus, Missouri, the son of the late William and Claudia Ann (Hutchison) George.

He was united in marriage to Loretta Ann (Bestgen) George on June 3, 1961, at Annunciation Catholic Church in California.

Don served his country in the United States Army from 1954-1956.

Don was a 1953 graduate of Jamestown High School in Jamestown, Missouri. He retired from MODOT in 1997 after working 39 years.

He was a member of Annunciation Catholic Church.

Don was full of life and never met a stranger. He was very proud of his family and nothing made him happier than to watch his grandkids play a sport or to brag on their accomplishments. He was a huge supporter of California Pinto Athletics and faithfully attended all games that his kids and grandkids played. He was an avid hunter and raised many bird dogs through his years. He was one of the founding members of the Moniteau County Sportsman’s Club and the Missouri Pheasant Hunters, who traveled to Perkins County, Nebraska for over 50 years.

Survivors include his wife Loretta of the home, four children, Jerry (Bonnie) George, Bill George, California; Tim (Jessica) George of Greensboro, North Carolina; Julie (JJ) Gates of Jefferson City; nine grandchildren, Chris (Jill) Moreland, Eric (Whitney) George, Aimee George, Cole George, Conner George, Gracie George, Camryn George, Sienna George and Hudson Gates; five great-grandchildren, Casen George, Beau Moreland, Kash Moreland, Hadleigh George and Lyla George; nephews Bob (Patsy) Cox, Brad (Lori) Bodamer; brother- in laws Charlie Bestgen, Louis (Linda) Bestgen, and sister-in law, Margaret Reynolds. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters Erlene Cox, Helen Bodamer and one granddaughter Claudia Gates.

Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Friday, April 23, 2021, at Annunciation Catholic Church in California with a prayer service at 4:30 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday, April 24, 2021, at Annunciation Catholic Church in California with the Rev. James Finder officiating.

Burial with military honors will be in Annunciation Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Lady Pinto Hoops or California Boys Basketball Booster Club.

Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home in Jefferson City is in charge of the arrangements.

Those wishing to email tributes or condolences to the family may do so at the www.dulletrimble.com website.