With profound sadness, the family of George Edward Hyde, Jr., age 74, announces his passing on August 1, 2025. Born on September 14, 1950, in Waverly, Iowa, he was a cherished member of the Cedar Falls community and resided there throughout his childhood.
George was a man of quiet strength and unwavering kindness. He dedicated his life to his family and his community. His passion for politics led to recognition from the Congressional floor (Senate), volunteer work in local politics in New York and Florida, and the honor of sitting with former Vice President Gore on a political dais. George quietly worked behind the scenes to enrich the lives of those in his community, always placing the focus on others rather than himself. His acts of kindness were often unseen, offered simply because someone needed help. His life of service and connection to others was not bound by place, and he often spoke fondly of his time on his family's farms in Iowa, his time in Binghamton, New York, and working with Col. Stuart Roosa on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. George ended his career with Hyde Distributing: distributors of Little Debbie Snack Cakes, for all towns surrounding Lake Okeechobee.
George was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Stella May Riddle Hyde; his father, George Edward Hyde, Senior; his brother, Walt Hyde; his grandson, George Riddle Hyde Bennett; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Catherine Elizabeth; his son, Jacob Edward Eppler and his wife, Katrin, of Donaueschingen, Germany; and their daughters, Emily and Hannah; his daughter, Jessica Hyde Marcom and her husband, David Andrew, of Staunton, Virginia; and their son, Aubrey; and his daughter, Amy Hyde Bennett and her husband, Roy, of Churchville, Virginia; and their children, Julia and Bankston. He is also survived by his brothers, Steven Hyde and his wife, Marian; Dan Hyde and his wife, Masumi; his sister, Candice Dzingle; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. We would be remiss not to include his grand-dogs Jake and Morgan Marcom, and Lady "Putz" Bennett.
A memorial gathering will be held on August 28, 2025 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home in Okeechobee, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, and to honor George's memory, please consider visiting your local library to check out books on the Founding Fathers, history, and politics. The family welcomes friends and acquaintances to raise a glass and share a fond memory of George during this time of remembrance.
The family wishes to thank Hospice of Okeechobee (Hamrick Home) for their loving care in George's final days.
Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at,
www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com.
All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.
Published by Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier on Aug. 16, 2025.