George W. Kilmer, 92, of State College, died Monday, February 9, 2015, at Greenhills Village, State College.
Born on August 19, 1922, in Dubois, he was the son of the late Charles and Blanche Beer Kilmer. George spent 21 years working on their farm in that area until he volunteered for the armed services in 1943. While serving in the army, he became eligible for flight training and earned his pilot wings. This is when he discovered his love of flying. Shortly thereafter, he met Hazel Husler at a 4-H function in State College, which led to their marriage at the United States Army War College in Carlisle. They were married for 61 years until Hazel’s death in 2007. After the war, he worked and eventually owned a meat processing plant in Brookville. He spent a total of 33 years in the business. He diligently worked to be the best which eventually earned him many national awards for his hickory smoked hams. George is well known in the Jefferson and Centre County regions as he was often seen flying his bright yellow Cub airplane. He actively participated in various air shows and pilot sponsored events due to his love of being in the company of pilots, planes, airports, and anything that could fly. He also taught his son, Randall to fly while he was young which eventually lead to him earning his pilot’s license when he was 16 years of age. Bill was always very proud of that ability in his son and they shared many happy moments discussing airplanes and sports events.
During 1998, George and Hazel moved to the Centre County area to be near their son, Randall and grandson, Kip Kilmer. George, better known as Bill, was always available to those in need of a helping hand or assistance with large or small jobs. He was extremely handy with his hands when it came to engine repair and liked to tinker with fixing items around the house. George was a very giving and gifted man who loved people and God, which was evident in his daily life. Never having an ill word about anyone, he truly lived his beliefs. He faithfully attended the Buffalo Run Methodist Church in Bellefonte. He will surely be missed by all who knew him.
Surviving are two children, Randall Kilmer of Bellefonte and Gretchen Jordan-Bastow, of British Columbia, Canada; six grandchildren residing in Pennsylvania and Canada, five great grandchildren also from Canada, and two step-grandchildren from Bellefonte.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Rebecca Lichtensteiger of Victoria, Canada.
Visitation will be from 6 until 8 p.m., on Thursday, February 12, 2015, at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 South Atherton Street, State College. Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., on Friday, February 13, 2015 at the funeral home with the Reverend Calvin Miller officiating.
Burial will be in Morningside Cemetery, DuBois.
Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.