George Riley Wappes age 90 of Auburn, IN died Thursday, September 7, 2023 at Parkview Regional Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. George was born July 21, 1933 in Swan – Noble County to William I. and Mildred L. (Renkenberger) Wappes. George married Helen H.  Hitchcock on May 2, 1964 in Pine Mountain, GA

George was a Retired Lieutenant Colonel of the United States Army – serving in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He was a pilot of helicopters and fixed wing – he was also an Army Ranger. He retired after 22 years of service in 1978.

George was a member of the Auburn United Methodist Church. He received a  Purdue BS Agriculture degree in 1954 and a Indiana  Masters in Education in 1984. He was a master gardener, past member of the DeKalb County Aviation Board, ACD volunteer and enjoyed playing bridge, cycling and tennis.

George is survived by his lovely wife: Helen H. Wappes, Auburn, IN; daughter: Molly (Steve) Krasoff, Austin, TX; 3 grandchildren: Sophia Krasoff, Amanda Krasoff and Myles Krasoff, all of Austin, TX; sister: Shirley Griffin, Garrett, IN.

George was preceded in death by his parents: William I. and Mildred L. Wappes; 4 brothers: William "Billy" Wappes, Merlin Wappes, Max Wappes and Jack Wappes; 2 sisters: Ora McFarland and Dorothy Loft.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, November 19, 2023 at Cedar Creek Cemetery – Auburn, IN. with Pastor Chris Nelson officiating.

Military honors by the United States Army and the American Legion .

Memorials are to the JAM Center – Garrett, IN

You may send a condolence or sign the on-line register book by visiting: www.thomasfuneralhome.org

Thomas Funeral Home – Garrett, IN is entrusted with the arrangements.

JAM Center