George Roger Osier

WAKEFIELD, Mich. - George Roger Osier, 80, a lifelong resident of Wakefield, passed away peacefully late Sunday evening, Nov. 6, 2016, after a brief illness.

George was born on Nov. 12, 1935, in Wakefield, a son of George Louis and Aili Serafina (Santti) Osier. He attended Wakefield High School and graduated in 1953. While in high school, George was active in football, tennis and track. In his senior year, he was First Team All State as a linebacker on the 1953 undefeated Wakefield football team coached by Roman C. Yatchak. He was also the starting running back for that team.

George proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force, and was honorably discharged as an airman first class on Oct. 25, 1957. He received the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. George was a member of the American Legion.

George attended Gogebic Community College and then Northern Michigan University, graduating with a bachelor of science degree in mathematics and economics. He later received his master's degree from NMU in administration.

George started his teaching career at Bergland and later became the superintendent of the Bergland Schools. After leaving Bergland, he became the administrator for the Gogebic Medical Care Facility and then moved on to become a principal for the Wakefield School system. He retired from Wakefield in 1987.

On June 21, 1975, George was united in marriage to Nancy J. McDonald at the First Presbyterian Church in Ironwood.

George is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Nancy; a brother, Michael (Ruth), Germantown, Wis .; a sister, Sara Osier, Woodbury, Minn .; his brother-in-law, William (Judy) McDonald, Wausau, Wis .; five nephews, Patrick (Doreen) McDonald, Matthew (Stacey) McDonald, David Osier, Don (Lynn) Osier and Scott Osier; five nieces, Michelle (Bob) Miklesh, Erin (John) Helgeson, Amy (Justin) Pagel, Sandy (Jim) Smith and Diana (Greg) Meeuwsen; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; and two brothers, Eugene Everett and John David.

In accordance with George's wishes, cremation has taken place.

The family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday, Nov. 12, from 10 to 10:45 a.m., at All Saints Lutheran Church, 1202 Putnam St., in Wakefield, with the honor guard beginning at 10:15 a.m.

A memorial service will follow the visitation at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Bill Jacobson officiating.

A committal service and inurnment will take place at Lakeside Cemetery, Wakefield, with a military graveside service under the auspices of Wakefield American Legion Geroux Post 11 and Wakefield VFW Post 9084 Honor Guard.

A luncheon will be served at the church fellowship hall following the cemetery service.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.