George Tipton Michael Jr

1930 - 2025

Long time Alaskan resident and beloved father, George Tipton Michael, Jr., passed away on September 3, 2025 in Soldotna, Alaska. He is preceded in death by his wife, Betty.

George was born June 3, 1930 in Elma, Washington. In his teens, George met Betty Lou Ross and they married at the age of 18. From that time forward they displayed a rare bond and remained a strong couple, sweethearts, married for 67 years. After moving to Juneau in 1950 he worked as a printer and later, as an Administrator for the State of Alaska, retiring in 1986. George was dedicated, hard-working and displayed a great sense of humor which often resulted in a "prank." Though residing in Juneau, George and Betty cherished much time at their "cabin" on Chilkat Lake near Haines. With a little help from friends and family, George built the remote lake house from the ground up, transporting materials by small aircraft and boat up the Chilkat River to the lake.

As hunting and fishing was a passion, he enjoyed flying family and friends around Southeast Alaska to enjoy pursuit of wildlife and the outdoors. Multiple times, he flew his family in a Cessna 180 down the inside passage to visit relatives in Elma, Washington. After retiring from the State of Alaska, George and Betty spent four summers flying charter operations in bush locations such as Bethel and Bettles. In Bettles, George spent several seasons as part owner in Brooks Range Aviation, flying charters in that region.

The family attended the First Church of God in Juneau where George enjoyed playing the trombone and singing gospel duets with Betty. After retiring, they became snowbirds, enjoying time in both Juneau and Desert Hot Springs, CA. George and Betty would often spend hours listening to the Gaither Vocal Band for gospel entertainment.

George is survived by 7 children (Penny, Patricia, David, Diana, Gina, Kathy, and Kimberly) 16 grandkids, 16 great-grandkids, and 3 great-great grandkids.

George will be greatly missed by his family who are all deeply grateful for the spiritual heritage and legacy he left behind.

There will be a Celebration of Life followed by a potluck on Saturday October 18 @ 4:00 pm. Location: Safe Harbor Church 2215 Ka-See-An Drive Juneau, Alaska.