George Michael Duehring

1942 - 2017

George Michael Duehring of Evans, GA passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, May 26th. He was 74 years old.

George was born in Mankato, MN on July 21st, 1942. He was the first born to George, a commercial refrigeration repairman, and Mercedes, an x-ray technician. Over the next several years four siblings would follow.

George was raised with a strong work ethic that started with his first job of de-tasseling corn. Other teenage jobs included working at the local town theater where he worked his way up to management. After graduating from Loyola High School in 1960, he went on Mankato State University.

In 1964, George packed up and moved to Southern California with two of his best friends. Upon his arrival, he joined the Marines and later received an honorable discharge. He then began a long career with Sears Roebuck & Co., starting with working in the stock room.

George loved every minute of living in Southern California during the '60s and always enjoyed sharing stories of often watching a local band "jam" on the beach (The Beach Boys) and catching shows in local clubs including those by a little-known duo (The Righteous Brothers).

After working his way up in the company and several family moves over the years, Sears eventually brought George and his family to Evans, GA in the summer of 1990. In 1993, he retired from Sears as Director of Sears Contract Sales, Customer Service and Operations.

Retirement, however, did not exactly suit George.

A little restaurant in downtown Augusta by the name of "Zaxby's" was starting to franchise and the rest, as we say, is chicken history. He and his wife, Rosemary, eventually became the proud owners of seven area locations, with an eighth location coming soon to Grovetown.

George had a servant's heart and always felt it his duty to give back to the community that he had grown to love so much. Over the years, he was active with organizations such as the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce (where he served as Chairman 2006-2007), Coalition For Quality Government, CSRA Alliance for Fort Gordon, Pride and Progress, and numerous other boards, groups and committees. In 2007, he was awarded the Columbia County Lifetime Achievement Award. He quietly gave to first responder programs, schools, churches, veterans programs and many others.

George was a deeply committed family man, honest business man, true friend and a very proud American. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, cooking, playing cards, hunting and fishing. His infectious laugh, warm smile and firm handshake will be deeply missed.

George was a member of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church. He was active on many church committees and cherished his friendship with Father Mike Ingram.

He is survived by his wife, Rosemary; daughter Aubrey Nesbitt (Nick), son George Michael "Mike" Duehring II and son Austin Duehring; grandson Jackson Nesbitt; brothers Hon. Craig Duehring (Terri) of VA, Brian Duehring (Mary), Donald Duehring (Bobby) and sister Julie Duehring all of MN; nephews Nathan Duehring (Toni) and Jeff both of MN; father and mother in-law Bob and Bette Sauer; brothers-in-law Ed Sauer (Margo); Tony Sauer (Katherine); nieces Stephanie Sauer and Krysta Blake (Tyler); great nephew Duke Tyler and great niece Penelope Tyler all of CA; and furry, four-legged children Moose and Mackenzie.

Funeral services will be held Monday, June 12 at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church in Grovetown at 11:00 a.m. A celebration of George's life will immediately follow in the church reception hall.

Per George's wishes, the family will travel to Mankato, MN for a graveside service at Pilgrims Rest Cemetery at a later date.

George requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Teresa of Avila Church.