George Horn

George E. Horn, age 79, of Kalamazoo, MI went to be with his Lord after a battle with cancer on March 11, 2017. George was born in The Bronx, New York on March 29, 1937 the only child of the late Fred and Dorothy (Tuller) Horn. As a child his family moved to southern New Jersey where he remained for the entirety of his youth. Upon graduation from high school, George joined the U.S. Coast Guard and served his country honorably. He was stationed in both New Jersey and Alaska. George was employed as a Sales Service Manager for Owens Illinois and retired from there after 35 years of service. He was a true animal enthusiast, loving all animals including his dogs, cats, horses and chickens. George was an accomplished Collie breeder and served as a mentor, writer and teacher for all things about purebred Collies. He also served as a judge for the American Kennel Club. George was fond of Thoroughbred Horse racing and especially enjoyed watching the Triple Crown and Breeder's Cup races. He enjoyed horseback riding with his wife and friends. His family considered him larger than life and a force of nature. He was someone who was never afraid to say "I love you." George was quick witted and always ready with a joke or story. He was a man of faith and served as an elder for both Fourth Reformed and Trinity Reformed Churches and was a current member of Greenwood Reformed Church. On December 2, 1995 he married the love of his life, the former Phyllis A. Kohl who survives. He is also survived by his beloved children, George, Jr. (Frances) Horn, Mark (Teresa) Horn, Michael (Terri) Horn and Alexandra Stark and grandchildren, Ryan, Adam, Katelyn, Tyler, Mackenzie and Taylor Horn. George left a lasting impact on all who knew him and his family will cherish their memory of him as a kind, caring and selfless individual. In accordance with his wishes cremation will take place and a memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Greenwood Reformed Church or Old Friends Dream Chase Farm in Georgetown, Kentucky, c/o the funeral home. Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home As Gus would say in Lonesome Dove, "It's been quite a party."

A memorial service will be held for George E. Horn on Saturday, April 15, 2017 at 1:00 PM at Greenwood Reformed Church, 1815 Winton Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49001. Coffee and cake will be served immediately afterward.