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George Allison Wilson Jr.

George Allison Wilson Jr. obituary, Des Moines, IA

George Wilson Obituary

George Allison Wilson Jr.

Des Moines

George Allison Wilson, Jr., 88, died Friday, May 3, 2013 in Des Moines.

George was born in Des Moines to former Governor and US Senator George A. and Mildred (Zehner) Wilson. He graduated from Roosevelt High School and attended college at George Washington University. At age 18, he enlisted in the United States Army and served as a tank platoon commander in the European Theatre during World War II where he was awarded a Bronze Star for commanding his tank into hostile enemy fire. He married Emogene "Genie" Simmons, in 1947. Shortly after graduating from Drake Law School in 1951, he was recalled to active duty for service during the Korean War.

George started his professional lobbying career before the Iowa General Assembly in 1954, representing clients until his retirement in 2002. When he was not sitting on "his" bench at the Capitol he was always happy in a duck blind with a pipe in his hand and a golden retriever at his side.

He is survived by Genie, his wife of 65 years, his two children, Allison (Jim) Fleming and George (Jean) Wilson, III. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Jennifer (Marty) Smith, Christine (John) Halbrook, Ellen (Colin) Powers, George "Skip" Wilson, IV, and Hunter Wilson, and four great-grandchildren. His grandchildren lovingly referred to him as Ahpie.

A memorial service will be held St. Luke's Episcopal Church (3424 Forest Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311) at 2 p.m. on May 23, 2013. Memorial gifts may be given to St. Luke's or to the Great Outdoors Foundation (Polk County Conservation) for the enhancement of Jester Park.

Published by the Des Moines Register from May 19 to May 20, 2013.
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2 Entries

George, so sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with you. Dan Evans

May 22, 2013

Dear Allison and Family,

Your father leaves a wonderful legacy.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Nile and Terry Ramsbottom

May 21, 2013

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Funeral services provided by:

Iles Funeral Homes - Dunn's Chapel

2121 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312

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