George Lewis Hontz, 76, of Ligonier, Ind., passed away at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2012, with his family by his side.

He was born on Dec. 24, 1936, in Warsaw, Ind., to Ralph and Lillie (Tom) Hontz. He married Linda Murphy on June 10, 1972.

Mr. Hontz worked at Georman McDonald for eight years and Lyon and Greenleaf (now Star of the West Flour Mill) for 36 years. He was also employed at Owen’s supermarket for six years. He enjoyed fishing, gardening and travelling. He had a wonderful sense of humor. You knew George loved you if he picked on you.

He is survived by his wife; a son: Terry (Donna) Hontz, Ligonier; a sister: Darlene (Sonny) Myers, Columbia City, Ind.; and his grandpuppy: Ace, whom he loved very much.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers: Curtis and Tom Hontz; and his grandparents.

Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013, at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway South, Ligonier. Friends may also call from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 3, at Ligonier Evangelical Church. A funeral service in his honor will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday at the church. Pastors John Lutton and Troy Diersing will officiate. Burial will be in Thorn Cemetery.

The family requests that memorial contributions be given to Ligonier Evangelical Church 1911 Lincolnway South, Ligonier, or to the family c/o Yeager Funeral Home.