Deaths Funeral Notices

September 2, 1939 December 14, 2020 George was a native Californian, born in Marysville, California. He lived in many different areas of the state during his growing-up years. His family settled in Humboldt County in the late 1950’s. George married Susan Carol Bird on December 23, 1962 in Fortuna, California. Together, they had four children, Laurel (1964), George Jr. (1966), Heather (1968), and Michael (1969).

George was an active member of the Fortuna Seventh-Day Adventist Church and was well known in the community for his fruit-selling business on the main boulevard in Fortuna. George’s business allowed him to make friends everywhere he traveled to sell fruit including Garberville, Portland, and Happy Camp. He loved to travel and made life-long friends wherever he went, including Australia, the Philippines, Mexico, Zimbabwe, Canada, and all over the United States. In addition, George will be remembered for his willingness to always lend a hand to anyone in the community who came to him for help or advice.

George passed away from respiratory failure on Monday, December 14, 2020 at Redwood Memorial Hospital in Fortuna. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 58 years, Susan; his children, Laurel & Brian Baker, George & Lorinda Whitchurch, Heather Whitchurch, Mick Whitchurch & Renie Hellyer; eighteen grandchildren, and nineteen greatgrandchildren (with two more on the way). He is also survived by his siblings, Ed Whitchurch, Jr., David Whitchurch, Willie Whitchurch, Mardy Whitchurch, Tricia Valentine, and Tim Whitchurch. George is also survived by a very large extended family, including nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins too numerous to count. A private family service will be planned for the coming spring.

Eternal rest grant unto George, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.