George Downing Wieman was born Jan. 25, 1922, in Los Angeles, Calif. He attended Beverly Hills High School, Oregon State University and UCLA. He served in the Flying Navy in the Panama Canal during World War II.
George grew up in Los Angeles body surfing, diving for lobster, golfing, driving rather fast and participating in lots of pranks. He met the love of his life, Jacqueline, on a blind date. They would have been married 62 years on Sept. 10, 2011.
He worked for Standard Oil of California (Chevron) for 25 years, becoming district sales manager in Elko, Nev., and then in Seattle. Subsequently, he started Horizon Enterprises Inc., a gasoline/carwash business that he ran for 13 years.
George started playing golf at age 10 and continued until four weeks ago. He loved to ski, starting at age 38 and continuing to perfect his technique under the instruction of his children until age 88. Boating in the San Juan Islands with his grandchildren and friends brought him immense joy.
Kiwanis was his favorite service organization. He was governor of the Pacific Northwest District and Host Committee chairman for the Kiwanis International Convention in Seattle. He was instrumental in starting the I.D.D. (Iodine Deficiency Disorder) program, a Kiwanis concern. George was also an elder in the Presbyterian Church of the Big Wood. He had a lifelong faith and held on to the hope of eternity with God the Father and his Lord Jesus.
George will be remembered for his incredibly positive attitude, his favorite quote being, "Moderation in all things!" and his delicious sourdough pancakes! When asked how he continued to be so active, he'd say, "Just keep moving!"
He is survived by his wife, Jackie; son, Randy; daughters, Renee and son-in-law Paul, Nanette and son-in-law Jean Marie; grandchildren, Danielle, Jens, Max and Jake; and his sister, Barbara Wieman. He is preceded in death by his father, George Carl, and his mother, Madeline.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Hospice & Palliative Care of the Wood River Valley and to the Presbyterian Church of the Big Wood.
A memorial celebration will be held at the Presbyterian Church of the Big Wood in Ketchum on Saturday, Sept. 17, at 10 a.m.
