George Harold Gmitro

Gmitro, George Harold age 88, of Edina, passed away 8/29/10. Preceded in death by his loving wife, Ruth. He is survived by and will be greatly missed by his 3 daughters, Linda Koelz, Pamela Gmitro, Lisa Gmitro; son-in-law, Tim Koelz; 6 grandchildren, Jennifer Koelz Armetta, Stephanie Koelz Rosania (David), Alicia Koelz Georgalis (Christos), Jesse George Gmitro, Erin Joan Severson, Rebecca Ruth Severson; 4 great-grandchildren, Jaden and Siena Armetta, Noel and Damon Rosania; sister-in-law, Dorothy Barbeau; nieces, nephews, and many friends. He is also survived by Barbara Smith, his loving friend & companion, who gave him so much happiness in his later years. Their travels together and card games gave him much pleasure. He will also be sorely missed by his companion, Muffie, who gave him so much love and wanted nothing more than to lie in his lap and be petted. He was a decorated WWII Air Force pilot who enjoyed remembering the early years. After the war, George went to work for American Hardware Mutual Insurance Company, attained his law degree and went on to become Senior Vice President of the company until his retirement Dec. 31, 1987. He was an avid golfer and loved playing Bridge and Rummy, but perhaps, his favorite activity was making people laugh. He was known for his sense of humor and was always ready with a joke. He took great pleasure in putting smiles on people's faces. We would like to thank his caregivers on the 3rd Floor of Sunrise of Edina who were always so kind and respectful and the wonderful people from Fairview Hospice who did so much to make his last months comfortable and enjoyable. He was a remarkable man and will be greatly missed by many, but especially by his family and Barbara. There will be a private interment at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery. Memorial service Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2010, 10:30 AM, with visitation one hour prior to service at Oak Grove Lutheran Church, 7045 Lyndale Ave S., Richfield. Memorials may be directed to the family. Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel 952-920-3996