George James Munyer of Bemidji, Minnesota, passed away in his home on August 8, 2024. He was 93 years young. George was born on September 10, 1930 in Williston, North Dakota, the fifth of 6 children born to Joseph and Mabel Munyer. He graduated from Williston High School in 1949 where he was very active in sports and played on 2 North Dakota State Championship teams. George was drafted into the United States Army in 1952, where he was awarded two Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart for his bravery during the Korean War. On April 2, 1955 he married the love of his life and best friend, Beverly Torgrimson, making their home in Williston and Bozeman, Montana before moving to Grand Forks, North Dakota.
George’s college career began at Montana State University and culminated at The University of North Dakota. He graduated from UND with a degree in Business Administration and from that moment on, became a Fighting Sioux fan for life. He served as President of both The Sioux Boosters and The Grand Forks Blue Line Club, attending as many sporting events as he could. George worked in sales for Nationwide Papers and Champion International for 35 years until his retirement in 1995.
George and Beverly raised 5 children in Grand Forks but spent their summers at Grace Lake, Minnesota where they created life-long friendships and memories, far too numerous to count. They had just completed a rebuild of their lake home in preparation for their retirement when Beverly was stricken with cancer and sadly passed away in 1990. In 1995 following his retirement, George made Grace Lake his permanent home. Over the years, George graciously hosted friends and family alike. He loved having company and made sure everyone felt welcome. He taught countless numbers of kids to waterski and was well known for his beachside ski lessons. George claimed to have slalom skied on his 75th birthday, however this is unverified and has become an urban legend. He had a knack for storytelling and kept a folder full of jokes, which he recited at the dinner table while entertaining, laughing hysterically while he did. He spent several winters in Missouri and Kansas but Northern Minnesota was always home.
George had a very full life and was a tremendous husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He made a lasting impression on everyone he met and was always willing to listen, lend a hand, open his home, and offer advice whenever called upon. He made everyone feel like family and his loyalty and generosity were legendary.
George is survived by his children: Mark Munyer, Bemidji, Minnesota; Dr. Paul Munyer (Sharon), League City, Texas; Doug Munyer (Susie), West Fargo, North Dakota; Tracey Munyer, Red Wing, Minnesota; and Jodi Rylance (David), Overland Park, Kansas. He is also survived by his 7 grandchildren: Tiffany Munyer, Dustin Munyer, Allie Munyer, Emily Munyer, Grace Munyer, Connor Rylance and Andie Rylance. His grandchildren brought him great joy. He was extremely proud of each of them and was their biggest supporter and fan. George felt very blessed to have spent time with his 2 great grandchildren, Beverly and Aurora, and cherished every moment he had with them.
George was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Beverly, and his siblings: Eleanor Munyer, Donald Munyer, Virginia Ablan, Ruth Toay, and Bill Munyer. Although he outlived his siblings, he remained connected to them through contact with his nieces and nephews. Family was important to George and he tried to instil those values within his children. He found comfort in a good cup of coffee and an unread newspaper. Although he is greatly missed by many, his legacy lives on through those he loved.
Please join us at The Munyer Home on Grace Lake on September 28th at 2:00 pm for a celebration of George’s life.
www.OlsonSchwartzFuneralHome.com