George L. Hargrove, 89, of State College, died Monday, September 30, 2024, at The Atrium at The Village at Penn State.
Born September 20, 1935, in Milton, Iowa, he was the son of Roland Lynn and Carrie Eleanor (Scheyli) Hargrove. On November 27, 1964 he married Marie Kay (Marty) Hargrove, who preceded him in death in 2018. He was also preceded in death by his parents, six older siblings and their spouses, and son in law, David Mosier.
He is survived by his daughter, Laura Mosier and her husband George McMurtry of State College; son, Greg Hargrove and his wife, Becky, of Bellefonte; grandchildren Emma and Sarah Mosier, Elizabeth and Benjamin Hargrove, and Barrett and Ann McMurtry. George is also survived by his dear friend Rita Kidwell.
George started his formal schooling in a one room schoolhouse in rural Iowa and graduated from Pulaski High School in Pulaski, Iowa. He earned his BS in Dairy Science at Iowa State University, accomplishing this in two portions, separated by 8 years during which he worked on dairy farms and served in the US Army, stationed primarily in Korea. After completing his BS, he and Marie moved to North Carolina where he earned both his MS and PhD in Animal Science at North Carolina State University. He taught Animal Science genetics at Penn State University from 1970 to 1998 and retired as Professor Emeritus. His favorite aspect of his career was that of advisor, reflecting his deep interest in people and their journey through life.
George was known for his kindness and willingness to help others as demonstrated by years of helping his family and volunteering at the church, Boy Scouts, and The Center for the Performing Arts. He enjoyed wood working, jig saw puzzles, games, gardening, and travel. Together with Marie, he traveled to 49 states, driving to the lower 48. They enjoyed visiting many family members as well as historic sites and national parks.
In the last 29 months of his life, George was a resident of The Atrium at The Village at Penn State and continued his interest in people, enjoying talking with the staff and getting to know their stories. George and his family will forever appreciate the special people who extended him kindness, grace, and friendship during this time.
A Celebration of Life, will be held on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 11AM at Park Forest Village United Methodist Church, 1833 Park Forest Ave. State College, PA.
Memorial contributions may be made to Park Forest United Methodist Church.
Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.