George S. Wales

      George Strafford Wales, born in Newton, MA, March 20, 1928, died peacefully with family by his side on September 3, 2017 in Granville, Ohio at the age of 89 years. He loved his family deeply and was never happier than when in their presence. George was devoted to his wife of 66 years and his three children; they shared many wonderful adventures together. George was a storied athlete in his youth and those talents took him to Colby College where he earned his bachelor's degree in Geology and lettered in football, baseball and hockey. George was later honored by being inducted into the Newton High School Hall of Fame. After a semi-pro baseball season in Maine where he led in home runs and batting average he received an offer from the Boston Braves to play professional baseball. However, the Korean war had just begun and George made the decision to support his country by enlisting in the Army.

George built a career in textiles and sportswear which took the family down south and eventually leading to Granville, OH in 1971, a town they loved and that resonated with their New England roots. He retired as V.P. of Marketing at the Golf Works in 1988.

George was known for his passion for playing tennis and helped start the first platform tennis club in Granville with his beloved racquet buddies. George took great pleasure in his wife Lorraine's piano playing and her role leading the Vail Series at Denison University, never missing a concert.

George was an environmentalist before it became a mainstream concept and he was often reading and spreading the word about the perils of climate change and unchecked development. He loved the beautiful sugar maple trees at their home of 43 years and actually cried when one had to be cut down.

George spent his retirement years producing countless pieces of beautiful wood furniture for his home, his children and friends. Much of the wood he used was from his aged and falling old trees in his yard. He donated many pieces for local charities. His spirit lives on in these handmade pieces.

George is survived by his wife, Lorraine, his children, Craig Wales (Virginia)  Douglas Wales (Valerie), Jennifer Hurley-Wales (Edward) and grandchildren, Geran, and Abby Wales, Maya Hurley-Wales.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd. SE, Newark, OH 43056 in his memory. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mcpeekhoekstra.com. 

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