George R. Couleur

George R. Couleur, 93, of New London, died Sunday, April 7, 2019, at GlenOaks Care Center in New London.  His funeral service will be 2:00 pm Saturday, April 13, 2019, at Faith Lutheran Church in rural Spicer.  Burial will be at Spicer City Cemetery.  A visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at church.  In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Rice Hospice.  Services are entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home in New London.  www.hafh.org  

George Randolph Couleur was born in Chicago Illinois on February 9, 1926.  He graduated from high school there in 1944 and was awarded a scholarship to the Chicago Institute of Art.  Instead of attending the institute George served 2 years in the Navy after receiving a letter stating, “Your Friends and Neighbors Need You.”

George loved to work and enjoyed his employment as “Meat Cutter” at the Willmar State Hospital, Kandiyohi County Deputy and Water Sheriff, and school bus driver all simultaneously for over 30 years.  One of his greatest rewards, he would say, was reviving drowning victims.

George was preceded in death by his first wife, Merlaine (Peterson) of Sunburg to whom he was married for 32years; second wife, Phyllis (Gutormson) of Spicer, to whom he was married for over 9 years; and his last love, Jacki Jeffords of Spicer, with whom he enjoyed traveling, grilling, and family time for many years.  He was also preceded in death by his parents, a brother, a sister, and a step-daughter. 

George is survived by his children:  Grant (Carol) Couleur, Laurie (Dennis) Smith, and Marnie Collins; 9 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his step-daughters:  Kathy (Jim) Ahrens and family and Linda Rosenquist’s family, and by Jackie Jeffords’ children and grandchildren. 

A special thank you to the staff at GlenOaks Care Center in New London, who made George Feel like he was part of a close community and also all of those at Rice Hospice.    

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