George H. Griffin

George Henry Griffin, 86, died June 23, 2013. George was born in Mallard, Iowa on September 27, 1926 to John and Anna Griffin. He attended Silverlake Consolidated High School in Ayrshire, Iowa then enlisted in the U.S. Navy on June 6, 1944. George worked as a diesel mechanic in the Pacific Theater Philippines Sea Frontier through the end of WWII in 1945. After completing his active duty service, George served as a Navy reservist for 6 years, 2 months, and 18 days and was honorably discharged from the Navy Reserve on July 9, 1951.

George married Frieda Janssen on September 5, 1948 and they farmed in the Mallard and Emmetsburg areas of Iowa for over 10 years following George’s discharge from the Navy. They moved to the Des Moines area in 1960 where George worked as a tire inspector at Armstrong Tire and Rubber for 27 years.

He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Connie Kay; both parents; and two brothers. George is survived by his wife of 64 years, Frieda; children, Cindy (Gary) Thomas, Susan (Dennis Wong) Griffin, and Sheila (Nigel) Day; 5 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren.

George was passionate about gardening and reading and everyone who knew him well was a frequent recipient of garden produce, well-loved books, or both. George had a brilliant mind and a keen sense of humor, which made him a delight to be around for family and friends alike.

Services will be held on Saturday, July 6, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. Visitation will be held one hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Unity Point Hospice, St. John’s Lutheran Church or to Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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