BORN

1940

DIED

2012

FUNERAL HOME

Muehlig Funeral Chapel

403 South Fourth Ave

Ann Arbor, Michigan

George Peapples Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 9, 2012.

Peapples, George A. age 71 years, dedicated husband, loving father and grandfather, kind and caring friend to many, passed away at home on Wednesday, March 7, 2012, after living courageously with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease) for the past two years.

George was born on November 6, 1940 in Benton Harbor, Michigan to Kathleen and Arthur L. Peapples. He was the third of five children. George always spoke fondly of his upbringing and of the community in which he was raised, both of which helped shape the individual he was to become. From early on, it was apparent that George would be a leader. He enjoyed great success in school, both academically and extra-curricularly. As an athlete, he was part of the Benton Harbor High School 1958 basketball team that made it to the state finals, something of which he was very proud. As a citizen and scholar, George served as president of the student council, was named "best all round," and earned the honor of Valedictorian of his high school class. In what seemed a natural progression, his college years brought him to Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan where he graduated in 1962 with a BA in economics. Graduate school followed, and George earned his MBA in finance from U of M in 1963. On June 27, 1962, George married his childhood sweetheart, Rebecca D. Sowers, and their love for each other carried them along together through nearly 50 years of marriage. They raised two daughters, Lucy and Sarah, and have had the pleasure of sharing good times with four wonderful grandchildren. George's professional life began and ended with General Motors, and spanned nearly 37 years bringing him challenges, rewards and incredible personal fulfillment. He began working for GM right out of graduate school on assignment in the New York Treasurer's office. From there he made himself useful to the company at Delco Moraine in Ohio, and then back to Detroit as Assistant Treasurer for Bank Relations. In 1977 George accepted an appointment from the President of the United States to serve as Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management where he received the Navy's Distinguished Public Service Award. In 1980 General Motors welcomed him back to work at a number of high-level positions within the company, including Director of Strategic Business Planning, President of General Motors of Canada, and Vice President of Public Policy. He retired from General Motors 2000.

In retirement George enjoyed special times on the tennis court with his many friends from Liberty Athletic Club. Thanks to Becky's interest in music, his business talents were put to use at The Ark where he was " volunteered" to serve on the board. The most special times however, were reserved for trips back home to the west side of the state where he and Becky had their second home on the shores of Lake Michigan, and where he will find eternal rest. George is survived by his wife Rebecca, his daughters Lucy and Sarah, son-in-law Dan Hill, and grandchildren Kate and Jake Hill, and Zare and Hannah Derounian. His sister Dorothy Peapples also survives. Upon his request, cremation has taken place, and a Memorial Service will take place on August 2, 2012 at 1:00pm in his hometown of Benton Harbor, MI.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for George Peapples

What is your first memory of George?

Share a favorite memory you have of George.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with George.

Describe a time when George made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about George?

Talk about a shared experience you had with George.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of George.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving George.

What is something you learned from George?

Not sure what to say?

March 5, 2019

Friend

Mike Rosen

Over the years, I have thought of George often. He was one of the finest gentlemen I've ever know. When I worked for him at the Pentagon 40 years ago he was much more than a exceptional boss; we became friends. His influence and inspiration was a turning point in my career, greatly for the better. There's an old Jewish proverb that says: "Be sure to send a lazy man for the angel of death." So sadly, for George they sent a sprinter. He was taken from us far too soon. But what a wonderful legacy he's left behind.

March 3, 2019

Friend

Jim Richards

As we approach the anniversary of the passing of George, I feel saddened again at the loss of a real leader, a dedicated visionary, and a true gentleman. I continue to be blessed with memories of him during his stay in Oshawa. Always proud to refer to George as a friend.

September 20, 2012

salem al-nashi

For nice family I stayed with on May 1974 Mr. &Mrs. PEAPPLES I would like to express my deep condolences to Mrs. . PEAPPLES and to Lucy , Sara ( Salem A. Al-Nashi from Kuwait)email/ [email protected]

July 26, 2012

Mike Rosen

Becky,
We met when I worked for George in 1979-1980 at the Pentagon through the Presidential Exec Exchange Program on loan from the private sector. It was a privilege and a pleasure knowing him. We even played a little tennis. What a brilliant classy guy. And how he loved his family.

April 7, 2012

Michael Brajac

My condolences to the Peapples family. George was indeed a special man. I remember making my first presentation to "Mr. Peapples". I was very nervous and he put me at ease so quickly and introduced himself as "George". I also remember when George came to our Quality Symposium. I had invited him to make some introductory remarks. I figured he would be gone by break time.
Much to my surprise, he sat down after mornning break and took in all the presentations. I figured he would be gone by lunch--no he stayed for the rest of the afternoon. Not only that, he came back for the entire second day. It was a subtle but important message to so many--what you are doing matters.
George became a regular at our symposiums and word quickly got around that George would likely be there for the whole event. George was also visionary in his support of research in
Quality Improvement methods. He helped to put the University of Waterloo on the map as one of the leading research centres in quality methods. He did so much for GM of Canada and his contributions will not be forgotten. My sympathies to your family.

March 27, 2012

betty and Bill Oostenbrug send their love and sympathy to George Peapple's f am ily at the time of his death. He was asplendid man and will be greatly missed by many. We are proud tohave known him.

March 22, 2012

George was the finest of men. He always showed a rare combination of intelligence, integrity, wisdom, and warm compassion. Working with George was a pleasure, and he was a positive influence on all who enjoyed the privilege. His loss is a great one for so many. My sincere condolences to his family.

Steve Van Houten

March 16, 2012

David Cahn

Becky Lucy and Sara, I'll always be grateful to George for how genuinely friendly and welcoming he was to me, and the rest of our scruffy group of hippies, who invaded his house every saturday, and occasionally dragged his wife off to music festivals in the middle of nowhere. Not everybody would have been so warm and accepting. I really valued our friendship and our time together.

Love, David

Posted by David Cahn

March 16, 2012

Dear Becky, we are sending our heartfelt sympathy.Victor and Gabriele

March 16, 2012

Don Valentine

Played tennis against George for many, many years. He owned me, in all those years I beat him only once, must of been on a bad day for him. I'll never forget George and his partners Bill or Larry.

March 15, 2012

Lonna Schubering/Menzor

Becky, Lucy, and Sara- We are so sorry to hear the sad news of Georges passing. I will always remember George from Benton Harbor H.S. during our basketball games and with the marching band. He was a wonderful person and will be truly missed. Our prayers are with you all. Lonna Schubering Menzor

March 15, 2012

Charly Vickery

Dear Becky, Lucy and Sarah. My heart is with you. George was a sweet and generous man. With love, Charly Vickery, Harbor Springs, MI

March 15, 2012

My condolences to Mrs Peapples and daughters.I greatly admired George and the leadership he provided as President of G.M. of Canada. Regardless of ones level or position in the company George treated everyone with respect and dignity. He was a gentleman and a gentle man.
Curt Tingley

March 14, 2012

Marcia McGee

I worked with George at GM Central Office. He was a true gentleman with a great sense of humor. I really respected him for his patience and his obvious love for his family. My prayers are with you.

March 14, 2012

Chris West

A wonderfull man; the best president that GM of Canada had. We were fortunate to have him lead the GM of Canada team for many years.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. May the great memories in your hearts ensure that he will live forever.

Judy and Chris West, St. Marys, Ontario

March 14, 2012

A most respected individual and visible President and we were proud to have worked under his administration here in Oshawa Ontario Canada. Our fondest memories were of his efforts with our son's cub scout troop and the Planting of trees at Canadian Headquarters which he mentored. He can rest knowing that these grounds are now beautified.
Sincerely Linda and Bradd Thompson Oshawa Ontario

March 14, 2012

Ken McGee

As a GM dealer who worked with George on National Dealer Council, I always had the greatest respect for him. I never forgot the time he spoke up for me when I was trying to make a point and others were not giving me any attention. He had a gentle quiet way with him that worked so well and commanded respect.
Always a gentlemen and will be missed by many.

March 14, 2012

Lou Vavaroutsos

My sincere condolences,to the family, George will be missed by many.

March 14, 2012

francois laurier

Mr. Peapples was truly a gentleman. He handled difficult situations with tact and respect. He did a great job as a president of GM Canada. My sympaties to the family.

François Laurier
GM Canada

March 14, 2012

Brian Wood

from a Ste Therese employee GM Canada
may the family be spared further sorrows
God bless and keep

March 14, 2012

Neil Macdonald

Dear Becky and Family,

On behalf of George's many colleagues, employees, and friends at General Motors of Canada who remember George so well in his role as Vice President and then President, I offer our deepest sympathies to you and your family. We consider ourselves very fortunate to have had the benefit of George's leadership over the span of ten years in Canada. He was an optimistic forward-looking visionary and a man of unimpeachable integrity. As a member of the GM Canada family, he garnered much respect from everyone who had the opportunity to work with him including employees, retirees, dealers, government partners and community members. He will be sadly missed but remembered fondly by all his friends here in Canada. He left Canada and the world a better place.

Our thoughts are with you and your family.

Neil
Neil Macdonald, General Motors Canada
Vice President Corporate Affairs
General Counsel and Secretary

March 14, 2012

Jim Richards

Becky, Sarah and Lucy, I was deeply saddened in hearing of George's passing. I had the distinct privilage and pleasure of working very closely with him during his stay in Oshawa. Upon hearing the news, I immediately had words like honesty, integrity, dedication and fairness flood my mind. George has left his kind mark on everyone he touched, and Oshawa will forever benefit from this visionary gentleman.

March 14, 2012

We learned the sad news this morning. We wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the family. He made me proud to be part of the GM family.
Daniel Tremblay -Tremblay Chev-Sturgeon Falls , Ontario

March 13, 2012

Lydia Wilder

I have many wonderful memories of George that live on in my heart. In the sadness of his passing, I send you my thoughts and prayers.

March 13, 2012

My deepest sympathies are with you and your family. George was supportive of many people during his GM career. I for one could always count on him for guidance be it in Detroit, Washington or as far away as Africa. I will miss him very much. - Ed Moorman (Ann Arbor, MI)

March 13, 2012

Becky, Sarah and Lucy, I am very sorry to learn of George's passing. I worked very closely with him when you were in Canada and talked periodically with him after you returned to the US. I cannot say enough about him as an exceptional leader and human being. He taught me many things, but mostly patience. In one of our many talks; when I wanted go in and take a situation by the throat and wrestle it to the ground he would give me that look. but his fine boned hands on the table and say, "let time look after this one". He never was wrong. Patience and insight were one of his many virtues. My deepest condolences.

Stew Low

March 13, 2012

mark hogan

Dear Becky and Family:
It's with great sadness that I learned of George's passing today. We worked together for many years at General Motors and he was a mentor and friend. He always brought a positive outlook to no matter what challenge or issue we faced and I will always remember him as a never say never teammate. Sallie and I extend our symapthies and prayers to you and your family. God Bless you. Mark and Sallie Hogan

March 13, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with the family. George was one of the best and most personable presidents GM of Canada had. I was proud to be part of the team.
Joe Aiello
(Retired GM of Canada)

March 13, 2012

Our prayers and deepest sympathy go out to your family ~ The Hamiltons

March 12, 2012

Trisha Eisele Kohler

Becky, Lucy and Sarah, I am so sad to read about the death of George. I have such fond memories of all of you, from hanging out at the house, to vacationing at Benton Harbor and then visiting you while you lived in D.C. My love, sympathies and prayers to you.

March 12, 2012

Having grown up with George as children in Benton Harbor, I well know what a wonderful, caring, committed and bright person George has been. He was a leader throughout his life, including when he led his high school basketball team to the class A finals against the Detroit Austin Dave DeBuschere team. We will all miss George. Becky, you and you family are in the thoughts of all of us in this community. -- Al Butzbaugh

March 12, 2012

My father, Brian Culverhouse, was saddened to hear the news about George. He sends his thoughts and prayers to your family. My Dad attended school with George and thought highly of him. With sincere sympathy, Brian Culverhouse. Via Annie Culverhouse

March 12, 2012

Peggy Seebaldt

My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. I worked with George at General Motors for several years on the 13th Floor of the GM Building while he was Assistant Comptroller. He was always so kind and considerate to everyone.

March 12, 2012

VJN

My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. My husband died 10 years ago this month of ALS, so I know first hand your sorrow. He was 69 years old and had been strugling with the desease for nearly three years. God has a plan for all of us and it takes time to understand His wisdom. Even though you do not know me, Becky, I am praying for your strength. VJN St. Joseph, MI

March 12, 2012

Dear Becky and Family,

I was very sad to learn of George's passing. I loved seeing him in Lakeside where his positive attitude would lift spirits even on a washed out beach day.

With sincere sympathy,

Gene Kaminski

March 12, 2012

Julie Steiner

Your neighbors are sending you our warmest sympathies and wishes. This has been a hard time, we know, but you have many many years of joyful memories and we hope that they will help you during this difficult time. Our love, julie and freida

March 11, 2012

My prayers & thoughts are with you.

Tim Eisele

March 11, 2012

Al & Mary Bavolek

We extend our deepest sympathy to Becky, Lucy and Sarah on the loss of your husband and father. He will be missed on the western shores of Michigan and at Turner Shores.
Al and Mary Bavolek

March 11, 2012

Dave Cole

I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to your entire family. I knew George during his time at GM and always had very high regard for him. He was an outstanding leader and professional. My prayers are with your family in this time of grief.
Dave Cole

Showing 1 - 39 of 39 results

Make a Donation
in George Peapples's name

Memorial Events
for George Peapples

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Muehlig Funeral Chapel

403 South Fourth Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

How to support George's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor George Peapples's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more