George
George Cory
George F. Cory of Plainwell, Michigan, went to be with his loving Savior on Friday, March 30, 2012. Born in Tiverton, RI on April 2, 1937 to Roy E. and Miriam (Armitage) Cory who preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were his infant son (Feb. 15, 1965); his sister and brother-in-law, Anita (David) Neville, brother-in-law, Craig (Barbara) Heinle and step-granddaughter Katherine Seeber.
George is survived and dearly missed by his loving family; wife Carol (Heinle) whom he married on October 21, 1961 in Milwaukee, WI; daughters, Roxanne (Timothy) Seeber of Portage, Rebecca (Larry Zemlick) Cory of Portage, Courtney (Jeffrey) Arlington of Evans, GA, Hilary (Paxton) Olney of Scotts; his grandchildren; Cody, Taylor, Mackenzie and Sage Arlington, Abigail Seeber and Ava and Max Olney; step grandchildren, Mark (Ally) Seeber and Christopher (Courtney) Seeber; step great grandchildren, Jack Seeber and Audrey Mendenhall; brother Douglas (Susan) Cory of Tiverton, RI; sisters-in-law, Nancy Nofield, Barbara Heinle, Mary Coleman; brothers-in-law, Scott (Sue) Heinle, John (Janet) Buckholtz; many nieces and nephews, dear friends and business associates.
He was owner of George Cory and Associates, a manufacturer’s rep agency, and was nationally known in the automotive aftermarket. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo and lived his faith every day in a quiet, very simple way.
George never met a stranger and never had an enemy; his greatest joy was to make other people laugh and was a treasured husband, father and friend to his wife and his 4 daughters.
In keeping with his wishes cremation has taken place and a celebration of his life will be held 11am Wednesday at
Zion Lutheran Church
, 2122 Bronson Blvd., Kalamazoo, MI 49008.
Contributions in memory of George may be made to the Campaign Fund at
Zion Lutheran Church
;
SPCA of Southwest Michigan
, 6955 W. KL Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49009 or
Christian Neighbors
, P.O. Box 53, Plainwell, MI 49080.
Messages of condolence for the family may be left at
www.WinkelFuneralHome.com
Offer Condolence for the family of George Cory
Condolence Messages
Sue Miller
April 1, 2012 at 12:22 pm
Dear Corey Family,
So sorry to hear of George’s passing. He was a great guy and always made me laugh. I will never forget our evenings at the USTA parties.
Miss seeing you all in the neighborhood.
Love, Sue Miller
Reply
Leonard Dorazio
April 1, 2012 at 8:04 pm
Thank you, it was a pleasure to talk to you; sorry it had to be under these circumstances, though. George was one of my favorite reps and I always enjoyed his company outside of just business. A very fun- loving person, as well as your mother. Always looked forward to calling knowing i would get to speak with either and that it would a very enjoyable time. Please give my condolences to your mother and all of your sisters.
My Deep Sympathy, Leonard Dorazio
Reply
Nicole Giles (Canoles)
April 2, 2012 at 8:12 am
Carol, Becky & Family,
I am so saddened by the news of George’s passing. He was the most loveable man I think I have ever come into contact with. Every phone call I received from him brought a smile to my face and laughter to my heart. George was the most genuine gentleman I have ever had the pleasure to know. He loved you all with everything he had and was very proud of all of you. My deepest condolences to you. The world have lost a magnificent man but God has gained an angel.
Sincerely
Nicole Giles (Canoles)
Reply
Lori Buxton
April 2, 2012 at 10:03 am
My heart *so* goes out to my long-time friend, former roomie, and sister in many ways… I know how close you two were, and how tirelessly you worked to make his final months easier… Rest in Peace Dad Cory… Prayers to you Becky and your family! xoxox”
Reply
Michael Ilich
April 2, 2012 at 12:14 pm
Rebecca and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I know how close you were with your dad. The few times I met your father I must tell you I thought to myself “Wow, Rebecca is the spitting image of her father.” Both in looks and personality. Just remember his spirit lives on in you.
You have a sharp wit. And, like your father, I don’t think you have ever met a stranger.
In the creativity department? Well. Let’s just say you’re a daddy’s girl.
I will be eternally grateful to your dad for teaching you things, that you – in turn – taught me. Namely, how to tile. Thank you George!
People are remembered for many things…inventions, monetary donations, monuments and names on buildings. To me you will always be remembered for the love, honor and respect you gave your father so willingly and unconditionally. It’s rare at times such as this that people can look back and have no regrets. You gave your father the greatest gifts anyone could give. Your time. Your attention. Your understanding. Your humor. Your patience. And mostly, your love.
He continues his journey a happy and content man who is at peace. People tend to forget how short our days are upon this Earth. So, don’t wait. You be happy, content and at peace now. You have earned it.
Job well done Rebecca Cory.
Much love to you and your family.
If you need anything call me.
Michael
Reply
Bob Moriarty
April 2, 2012 at 12:26 pm
Dear Carol & Girls
Jeanette & I would llike to express our sincere condolences on the passing of George. You were truly fortunate to have a man like George in your life. From the first time I met George I knew what a great family man he was. I could always see how proud & blessed he felt to have a house full of girls to go home to every week. I was also blessed to be a small part of Georges life and will always have so many great memories of the times we spent together. George was not only my boss but was a true friend that I will truly miss. It would take me days to tell you all the stories during our travels. We not only got the job done but he made my job the most enjoyable job I’ve ever had. One thing I thought was always great was regardless what city or town we were in George always knew not only how to get to every customer location but after a full days work he always knew where the best restaurants were and how to get there. I don’t think I ever sit down late at night and have a cup of coffee that I don’t think of George..Every call we ever went on George very quickly made friends with everyone. If you look in a dictionary under “never met a stranger” you would see a picture of George.He was one of a kind for sure and will be truly missed by all. God Bless
Sincerely
Bob & Jeanette Moriarty
Reply
Chuck Jeffers
April 3, 2012 at 2:27 pm
Carol & girls,
I met George in 1973. He was with KD at that time and I remember him as one of the few reps. that treated me, a young order puller, as a trusted and important person. I never forgot that. He never changed through out the years. I was a very lucky person to have known him for so long. We shared many breakfasts, lunches and meetings discussing business but mostly our families. I always looked forward to the call he would make to let me know he’d be in town that day and I always made sure, which ever company I worked for, that there was a fresh pot of coffee on just before he arrived. My heartfelt wishes and prayers are with you all. He will be greatly missed but remembered with smiles each time I think of him. God bless,
Chuck Jeffers
Reply
Jack Manalli
April 4, 2012 at 5:24 pm
Dear Carol and Girls:
Mary Lou and I are simply broken hearted over your loss! George was like a brother to me. Over the years, in so many situations, he helped me in personal and business ways. I could always count on his advice, help and understanding.
I, like all of you, must learn to remember the good times and there were many! I am only sorry that circumstances did not permit me to visit him recently. We spoke by phone and internet , frequently as you knowand those were always happy times. We had an ongoing joke about when I wanted him to join the Kelsey-Hayes sales force. He said, “I am happy in engineering and have never sold anything and I may not do as well financially!” I reassured him that sometimes a person has to take a step backwards in order to move a lot forward. He reminded me of that over the years, whenever he wanted to kid me about a recent temporary problem. He was a natural salesman who everyone liked and trusted! His family was always first and foremost in all ways!
Wishing you Love and Peace. May God’s grace sustain you!
Jack and Mary Lou
Reply
Todd Allen
April 4, 2012 at 7:54 pm
Sorry to hear of George’s passing I always enjoyed seeing him come into the store and just chat like old friends or see him at Big Boy having his evening coffee from time to time he will be missed greatly by the people who knew him again my condolences to all his family!
Todd Allen ( Ridge & Kramer Auto Parts ) & Clydesdales of Plainwell
Reply
Anne Marie Mernaugh
April 6, 2012 at 11:56 am
Hi Hilary:
I have been thinking about you and your family so much. I hope you are hanging in there. I wish I still lived in Michigan so I could have gone to your dads Memorial yesterday. I know from experience that you are all broken hearted. You are going to miss your dad for the rest of your life, but it will become easier to manage. I remember feeling such a strange energy when my dad passed away. I felt as if I could sleep for days but at the same time run for miles at a time. I will continue to pray for all of you. Please give your mom my best as well as everyone else. Hang in there and if you do ever need to talk with someone who has gone through it, please don’t hesitate to call. Your dad was so great and genuine…he was full of love and he showered everyone that came into contact with him with that love. That is what I remember about him most.
Take care,
Annemarie
Reply
Eddie Kay
April 7, 2012 at 9:35 am
I was so saddened by the news of George`s passing. I spent a lot of time thinking of him in the last few days. George had a special gift of brightening my day every time I saw him. He always had such a positive attitude and loads of enthusiasm. I first met George in 1980 when I started my business. He was always one of my favorite Reps and over the years had become a very close friend. There was always a special enthusiasm, joy and laughter about him. HE WILL BE MISSED AND NEVER FORGOTTEN !
George was very fortunate to have lived a long life with a wonderful Wife and 4 outstanding Daughters.
My Deepest Sympathy and Condolences
Eddie Kay
Reply
Judy May and Gary Mitchell
April 7, 2012 at 8:17 pm
George and Gary were in therapy at the same time in Plainwell. When i told Gary about George passing, he said “That funny guy in therapy that made every one laugh?” He is one of those people that you meet and never forget! Truly one of a kind. I have a picture of Gary and George with there zebra hats that Carol made! We will cherish it and the memories forever.
Reply
Ralph and Gail Bliss
April 7, 2012 at 9:38 pm
Rox, Becky,
I was very sorry to learn of your Dad’s passing. My daughter, Rachel spotted a note of some sort on Stacie’s Facebook page & gave us a call.
There is a card in the mail for your Mom, as Sue tells me she does not use email. In a note to her I shared that, while age differences initially and through geography later in life, Foster & I actually spent little time together over the years but he left a lasting impression on me through his quick smile and warm personality.
I had lost track of his health situation in recent years ( since the days of his Caring Page journal) but I understand you girls continued to be instrumental in making him as comfortable as possible and providing your Mom a breather as care providers. There is no finer example of his legacy but through you and your care of him..
Please extend my condolences to Courtney & Hillary, and know that you are all in our Prayers,
Ralph & Gail Bliss
Reply
Scott Paddock
April 12, 2012 at 9:21 am
I never met this man. It sounds like I am missing out on a great thing by not meeting him. Roxanne, I am very sorry to hear about this. If you or any family members need anything even if it is just to talk, please ask.
Reply
Scott Neville-Tiverton, RI
April 12, 2012 at 11:08 am
Dear Carol, Roxanne, Becky, Courtney and Hillary,
So sorry to hear of Uncle Foster’s passing. Having just experiencied it with my own parents recently and having fresh in mind the sense of loss, please accept the condolences of our family and your extended family here in RI. While we never spent much time with you all, Uncle Foster left some lasting memories that we will not soon forget. My fondest memory was some of his antics at Doug and Sherrie’s wedding in VT. I hope that your faith in God brings you some comfort at this time as well. The Bible calls him “the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation” (2 Cor. 1:3,4) Sometimes our faith is all that keeps us going. Love to all, Scott and Family
Reply
Terri Shaler
April 12, 2012 at 7:53 pm
Dear Carol and family,
Please accept my sympathy for the loss of George. I didn’t know him but I can tell by reading the other messages that he was truly a wonderful person and well loved. You will remain in my prayers and thoughts and I pray God will give you peace and comfort at this time.
Blessings to your family,
Terri, Christian Neighbors – Director
Reply
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George is survived and dearly missed by his loving family; wife Carol (Heinle) whom he married on October 21, 1961 in Milwaukee, WI; daughters, Roxanne (Timothy) Seeber of Portage, Rebecca (Larry Zemlick) Cory of Portage, Courtney (Jeffrey) Arlington of Evans, GA, Hilary (Paxton) Olney of Scotts; his grandchildren; Cody, Taylor, Mackenzie and Sage Arlington, Abigail Seeber and Ava and Max Olney; step grandchildren, Mark (Ally) Seeber and Christopher (Courtney) Seeber; step great grandchildren, Jack Seeber and Audrey Mendenhall; brother Douglas (Susan) Cory of Tiverton, RI; sisters-in-law, Nancy Nofield, Barbara Heinle, Mary Coleman; brothers-in-law, Scott (Sue) Heinle, John (Janet) Buckholtz; many nieces and nephews, dear friends and business associates.
He was owner of George Cory and Associates, a manufacturer’s rep agency, and was nationally known in the automotive aftermarket. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Kalamazoo and lived his faith every day in a quiet, very simple way.
George never met a stranger and never had an enemy; his greatest joy was to make other people laugh and was a treasured husband, father and friend to his wife and his 4 daughters.
In keeping with his wishes cremation has taken place and a celebration of his life will be held 11am Wednesday at
Zion Lutheran Church
, 2122 Bronson Blvd., Kalamazoo, MI 49008.
Contributions in memory of George may be made to the Campaign Fund at
Zion Lutheran Church
;
SPCA of Southwest Michigan
, 6955 W. KL Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49009 or
Christian Neighbors
, P.O. Box 53, Plainwell, MI 49080.
Messages of condolence for the family may be left at
www.WinkelFuneralHome.com
Offer Condolence for the family of George Cory
Condolence Messages
Sue Miller
April 1, 2012 at 12:22 pm
Dear Corey Family,
So sorry to hear of George’s passing. He was a great guy and always made me laugh. I will never forget our evenings at the USTA parties.
Miss seeing you all in the neighborhood.
Love, Sue Miller
Reply
Leonard Dorazio
April 1, 2012 at 8:04 pm
Thank you, it was a pleasure to talk to you; sorry it had to be under these circumstances, though. George was one of my favorite reps and I always enjoyed his company outside of just business. A very fun- loving person, as well as your mother. Always looked forward to calling knowing i would get to speak with either and that it would a very enjoyable time. Please give my condolences to your mother and all of your sisters.
My Deep Sympathy, Leonard Dorazio
Reply
Nicole Giles (Canoles)
April 2, 2012 at 8:12 am
Carol, Becky & Family,
I am so saddened by the news of George’s passing. He was the most loveable man I think I have ever come into contact with. Every phone call I received from him brought a smile to my face and laughter to my heart. George was the most genuine gentleman I have ever had the pleasure to know. He loved you all with everything he had and was very proud of all of you. My deepest condolences to you. The world have lost a magnificent man but God has gained an angel.
Sincerely
Nicole Giles (Canoles)
Reply
Lori Buxton
April 2, 2012 at 10:03 am
My heart *so* goes out to my long-time friend, former roomie, and sister in many ways… I know how close you two were, and how tirelessly you worked to make his final months easier… Rest in Peace Dad Cory… Prayers to you Becky and your family! xoxox”
Reply
Michael Ilich
April 2, 2012 at 12:14 pm
Rebecca and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I know how close you were with your dad. The few times I met your father I must tell you I thought to myself “Wow, Rebecca is the spitting image of her father.” Both in looks and personality. Just remember his spirit lives on in you.
You have a sharp wit. And, like your father, I don’t think you have ever met a stranger.
In the creativity department? Well. Let’s just say you’re a daddy’s girl.
I will be eternally grateful to your dad for teaching you things, that you – in turn – taught me. Namely, how to tile. Thank you George!
People are remembered for many things…inventions, monetary donations, monuments and names on buildings. To me you will always be remembered for the love, honor and respect you gave your father so willingly and unconditionally. It’s rare at times such as this that people can look back and have no regrets. You gave your father the greatest gifts anyone could give. Your time. Your attention. Your understanding. Your humor. Your patience. And mostly, your love.
He continues his journey a happy and content man who is at peace. People tend to forget how short our days are upon this Earth. So, don’t wait. You be happy, content and at peace now. You have earned it.
Job well done Rebecca Cory.
Much love to you and your family.
If you need anything call me.
Michael
Reply
Bob Moriarty
April 2, 2012 at 12:26 pm
Dear Carol & Girls
Jeanette & I would llike to express our sincere condolences on the passing of George. You were truly fortunate to have a man like George in your life. From the first time I met George I knew what a great family man he was. I could always see how proud & blessed he felt to have a house full of girls to go home to every week. I was also blessed to be a small part of Georges life and will always have so many great memories of the times we spent together. George was not only my boss but was a true friend that I will truly miss. It would take me days to tell you all the stories during our travels. We not only got the job done but he made my job the most enjoyable job I’ve ever had. One thing I thought was always great was regardless what city or town we were in George always knew not only how to get to every customer location but after a full days work he always knew where the best restaurants were and how to get there. I don’t think I ever sit down late at night and have a cup of coffee that I don’t think of George..Every call we ever went on George very quickly made friends with everyone. If you look in a dictionary under “never met a stranger” you would see a picture of George.He was one of a kind for sure and will be truly missed by all. God Bless
Sincerely
Bob & Jeanette Moriarty
Reply
Chuck Jeffers
April 3, 2012 at 2:27 pm
Carol & girls,
I met George in 1973. He was with KD at that time and I remember him as one of the few reps. that treated me, a young order puller, as a trusted and important person. I never forgot that. He never changed through out the years. I was a very lucky person to have known him for so long. We shared many breakfasts, lunches and meetings discussing business but mostly our families. I always looked forward to the call he would make to let me know he’d be in town that day and I always made sure, which ever company I worked for, that there was a fresh pot of coffee on just before he arrived. My heartfelt wishes and prayers are with you all. He will be greatly missed but remembered with smiles each time I think of him. God bless,
Chuck Jeffers
Reply
Jack Manalli
April 4, 2012 at 5:24 pm
Dear Carol and Girls:
Mary Lou and I are simply broken hearted over your loss! George was like a brother to me. Over the years, in so many situations, he helped me in personal and business ways. I could always count on his advice, help and understanding.
I, like all of you, must learn to remember the good times and there were many! I am only sorry that circumstances did not permit me to visit him recently. We spoke by phone and internet , frequently as you knowand those were always happy times. We had an ongoing joke about when I wanted him to join the Kelsey-Hayes sales force. He said, “I am happy in engineering and have never sold anything and I may not do as well financially!” I reassured him that sometimes a person has to take a step backwards in order to move a lot forward. He reminded me of that over the years, whenever he wanted to kid me about a recent temporary problem. He was a natural salesman who everyone liked and trusted! His family was always first and foremost in all ways!
Wishing you Love and Peace. May God’s grace sustain you!
Jack and Mary Lou
Reply
Todd Allen
April 4, 2012 at 7:54 pm
Sorry to hear of George’s passing I always enjoyed seeing him come into the store and just chat like old friends or see him at Big Boy having his evening coffee from time to time he will be missed greatly by the people who knew him again my condolences to all his family!
Todd Allen ( Ridge & Kramer Auto Parts ) & Clydesdales of Plainwell
Reply
Anne Marie Mernaugh
April 6, 2012 at 11:56 am
Hi Hilary:
I have been thinking about you and your family so much. I hope you are hanging in there. I wish I still lived in Michigan so I could have gone to your dads Memorial yesterday. I know from experience that you are all broken hearted. You are going to miss your dad for the rest of your life, but it will become easier to manage. I remember feeling such a strange energy when my dad passed away. I felt as if I could sleep for days but at the same time run for miles at a time. I will continue to pray for all of you. Please give your mom my best as well as everyone else. Hang in there and if you do ever need to talk with someone who has gone through it, please don’t hesitate to call. Your dad was so great and genuine…he was full of love and he showered everyone that came into contact with him with that love. That is what I remember about him most.
Take care,
Annemarie
Reply
Eddie Kay
April 7, 2012 at 9:35 am
I was so saddened by the news of George`s passing. I spent a lot of time thinking of him in the last few days. George had a special gift of brightening my day every time I saw him. He always had such a positive attitude and loads of enthusiasm. I first met George in 1980 when I started my business. He was always one of my favorite Reps and over the years had become a very close friend. There was always a special enthusiasm, joy and laughter about him. HE WILL BE MISSED AND NEVER FORGOTTEN !
George was very fortunate to have lived a long life with a wonderful Wife and 4 outstanding Daughters.
My Deepest Sympathy and Condolences
Eddie Kay
Reply
Judy May and Gary Mitchell
April 7, 2012 at 8:17 pm
George and Gary were in therapy at the same time in Plainwell. When i told Gary about George passing, he said “That funny guy in therapy that made every one laugh?” He is one of those people that you meet and never forget! Truly one of a kind. I have a picture of Gary and George with there zebra hats that Carol made! We will cherish it and the memories forever.
Reply
Ralph and Gail Bliss
April 7, 2012 at 9:38 pm
Rox, Becky,
I was very sorry to learn of your Dad’s passing. My daughter, Rachel spotted a note of some sort on Stacie’s Facebook page & gave us a call.
There is a card in the mail for your Mom, as Sue tells me she does not use email. In a note to her I shared that, while age differences initially and through geography later in life, Foster & I actually spent little time together over the years but he left a lasting impression on me through his quick smile and warm personality.
I had lost track of his health situation in recent years ( since the days of his Caring Page journal) but I understand you girls continued to be instrumental in making him as comfortable as possible and providing your Mom a breather as care providers. There is no finer example of his legacy but through you and your care of him..
Please extend my condolences to Courtney & Hillary, and know that you are all in our Prayers,
Ralph & Gail Bliss
Reply
Scott Paddock
April 12, 2012 at 9:21 am
I never met this man. It sounds like I am missing out on a great thing by not meeting him. Roxanne, I am very sorry to hear about this. If you or any family members need anything even if it is just to talk, please ask.
Reply
Scott Neville-Tiverton, RI
April 12, 2012 at 11:08 am
Dear Carol, Roxanne, Becky, Courtney and Hillary,
So sorry to hear of Uncle Foster’s passing. Having just experiencied it with my own parents recently and having fresh in mind the sense of loss, please accept the condolences of our family and your extended family here in RI. While we never spent much time with you all, Uncle Foster left some lasting memories that we will not soon forget. My fondest memory was some of his antics at Doug and Sherrie’s wedding in VT. I hope that your faith in God brings you some comfort at this time as well. The Bible calls him “the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation” (2 Cor. 1:3,4) Sometimes our faith is all that keeps us going. Love to all, Scott and Family
Reply
Terri Shaler
April 12, 2012 at 7:53 pm
Dear Carol and family,
Please accept my sympathy for the loss of George. I didn’t know him but I can tell by reading the other messages that he was truly a wonderful person and well loved. You will remain in my prayers and thoughts and I pray God will give you peace and comfort at this time.
Blessings to your family,
Terri, Christian Neighbors – Director
Reply
Leave a Condolence
Cancel reply
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Comment
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Obituary Notification Service
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