George De Long, 86

George De Long, 86, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2006, in Spokane, Wash.

Burial with full military honors will be conducted at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minn., at 10:15 am, Friday, Sept. 29, 2006. Pastor Dan Ritter will officiate.

George was born Sept. 28, 1920, the son of George W. and Princella (Walker) De Long in Springfield, Ill.

He grew up in Springfield and attended local schools, graduating from Feichan High School in 1937. Following High School, He joined the U.S. Army and served in Africa, Italy, Germany and France. His 26 years of service spanned three wars — World War II, Korea and Vietnam — and his decorations included three Bronze Stars.

George worked in transportation for Ford Aerospace in Palo Alto, Calif., retiring in 1985 after 20 years.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, golf and especially his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth De Long of Sagle, Idaho; his daughters, Madeleine (Bill) Mernik of Minneapolis, Minn., and Dorothy (Ken) Nielson of Sagle; his grandchildren, Eric, Christina, Amy and Scott; and his great-grandchildren, Dylan, Alison, Wyatt, Parker, Jenna, Caleb and "Sweet Pea." A brother and a sister, and numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother and sister.

Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit George's memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his online guest book.