George Michael Medley, 83, Sturgis, died at the VAMC Ft. Meade Hospice from complications of Parkinson's Disease. In his final moments, he was surrounded by family and he passed peacefully into God's hands on January 1, 2015.

Visitation will be from noon to 7:00pm at Kinkade Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, January 6, 2015. A rosary will be said Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. at Kinkade Funeral Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial for George will be at St. Francis of Assisi Church at 10:00am on Wednesday, January 7, 2015. He will be laid to rest at Black Hills National Cemetery at 11:30am with military honors provided by Sturgis Veterans Honor Guard.

George was born in Chicago, Illinois, on April 8, 1931. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the US Air Force. George loved the Air Force life and served with honor--including a tour in Vietnam--until his retirement in 1974. His last posting was to Ellsworth AFB, where he and Joyce fell in love with the Black Hills. They decided Rapid City would be the ideal place to raise their large brood of children.

After retiring from his various civilian jobs, George and Joyce moved to Boulder Canyon. He occupied himself with golfing, tinkering in his shop, and solving the world's problem with the Sturgis McDonald's Coffee Klatch each morning.

George was a man of rare talents, and his most useful skill was 'selective hearing.' He could also wiggle his ears on command, much to the amazement and delight of his young daughters. His greatest joy was his family and nothing made him happier than enjoying a beer with his sons.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the Ft. Meade VAMC--most especially the Community Living Center and Hospice staff. Their care, kindness, and compassion has been a blessing during this difficult time. Also thank you to Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis for their expert assistance with arrangements.

George is survived by his wife Joyce of 62 years, children Michael (Gina), Terry (Song Mi), Gayle (Tom) Ogle, Kathy (Andy) Simonson, Patrick, James, Susan, and Diana (Jack) Henris, twelve grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. George was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to all.

A memorial has been established to the Sturgis Veterans Honor Guard.

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