George Weiss

George John Weiss, Jr, of Marine passed away on January 4, 2021, at the age of 92. George passed away comfortably at home surrounded by family. George was born on July 6, 1928, to Father George and Mother Eldora Weiss. One of nine children. George’s work ethic and desire to take care of his family led to him enlisting in the Marine Corps at an early age. He was stationed in China during World War II. At the end of the war, George returned to Minnesota and went to work at the Ford Motor Company. He would work there for 30 years. He met his wife Bernadine and started a family. After retiring from the Ford, George founded the Fort Snelling Memorial Rifle Squad in 1979. President Obama recognized George in August of 2010 with the Presidential Citizens Medal – the second highest honor that can be given to an American civilian – for his extraordinary service to our nation’s veterans and their families. George remained an active member of the VFW, Marine Corps League American Legion. and other veteran organizations. He held many offices in these organizations He held the title of Fort Snelling Memorial Rifle Squad Commander for multiple years as well as Squad Leader. George also loved the simple things in life, riding his Harley, hunting, his dogs, spending time with family at the lake and a good meal.  George was preceded in death by parents, wife Bernadine, daughter Georganne, son in law Joe and siblings. He is survived by two siblings; his children Michael, Cheryl (Ray), Mary, Gail; grandchildren John (Jennifer), Nathan, Jeremy (Laura), Cassondra, Merrissa, Eric, Steven, Brandilyn, Isabelle; and his great-grandchildren, Alycea, Carter, Jada, Jemma, Jace, Kenzie, and Ciarra. The service is scheduled for Saturday, June 19, 2021, at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Service to begin at 10:30 with a flyover. It was 42 years ago on this date that George formed the Fort Snelling Memorial Rifle Squad. “As long as the Memorial Rifle Squad is here, no veteran will be forgotten.” George J Weiss Jr.