George Henry North's Obituary
Mr. George Henry “Corky” North, age 90, passed away in Grand Haven, Michigan on Monday, September 2, 2024. He was born in Spring Lake on January 1, 1934 to Earl and Lillian (Vokal) North and was raised on the family farm where he worked raising turkeys and managed a large grape vineyard. Corky would always say, “everyone says I have a story”, so here is his final story. He was a veteran of the United States Army, trained in explosives and demolition, he served 18 months as a motor sergeant and border patrol in Germany and Italy. Corky married the former Mary Alice Kinkema on October 9, 1957 in Grand Haven and they enjoyed 66 years of marriage. His talents and knowledge as a master electrician allowed him to serve his community, and surrounding communities, in many different capacities. He founded Northern Electric & Inspection Co. in 1974, along with his wife, Mary, as partner and manager. He served as electrical inspector for the City of Holland, Spring Lake Township, Crockery Township, Robinson Township, Village of Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, and Fruitport. He not only attended electrical classes, including Michigan State Police courses on fire and arson, but he also held classes all over Michigan for electricians to get their journeyman and masters licenses, as well as classes for renewing their electrical licenses. Outside of his business, Corky used his electrical talents to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and a special trip with International Aid where he traveled to New York City following the attacks on the World Trade Center to help rewire buildings. He also volunteered as a valet at North Ottawa Community Hospital for many years and with 4-H when his daughters were involved in their program. Corky was hardworking and generous and was often known to purchase groceries for young families ahead of him in line at Orchard Market. He was an active member of Second Christian Reformed Church of Grand Haven where he participated in the Friendship Club and was on the board of directors for Western Michigan Christian High School. In his early years, Corky enjoyed building and racing cars with Joe Bisacky. He also enjoyed working in his flower gardens, not vegetable gardens like he planted on the farm growing up, and when asked what type of flowers he grew he would simply answer, “they are all just flowers”. He enjoyed family camping trips to Kibby Creek in Ludington and was proud of the Sears and Roebuck home he, along with his wife, purchased 66 years ago on Boom Road overlooking the Grand River. Everyone in the neighborhood knew Corky and his dog, Gretchie, including the school bus that would stop on their route to let the kids say “HI”. Corky will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 66 years, Mary; daughters, Beth Ann North and Karen Kay (Wayne) Daugherty; grandchildren, Jenna, Jonathon, Darren; step-grandchildren, Josh and Jasmine; and two step-great-granddaughters, Theodora and Michelle. He was preceded in death by his parents; twin sister, Georgiana North; and half-brother, Willard (Marion) North. A private family graveside service will take place at Spring Lake Cemetery. A CELEBRATION OF CORKY’S LIFE will be announced at a later date. Arrangements by The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
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