George Walter Eng, 94, of Grantsburg, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Born on October 28, 1930, in Pine County, Minnesota, George grew up on a dairy farm, learning hard work and resilience alongside his five siblings. Known for his athleticism, he excelled at Rush City High School, becoming a local legend in baseball and earning state championships with Braham in 1957 and Cushing in 1963.
George’s passions included golf, where he made two hole-in-ones, one at age 78 and the other at age 80. The instance was a memorable Father’s Day shot using a club handcrafted by his late son Bill. He also loved hunting, spending time in deer stands well into his 90s. His sharp wit, one-liners, and unwavering faith were constants in his life. He was a devoted member of New Hope Lutheran Church, finding comfort in his faith both in person and later from his recliner.
Professionally, George worked as a machinist at McNally Industries in Grantsburg for over 30 years before opening his own machine shop in Braham, Minnesota. His life was marked by two great loves—his first wife, Donna, with whom he had three children, and later Sandy Norenberg, his loving partner, with whom he built a warm, blended family.
In 2016, George’s family grew with the discovery of his son, Scott Buchanan, a cherished and unexpected blessing.
George is survived by his wife, Sandy; his children, Scott (Karen), Beth, and Max (Carole); step-children, Barry (Colleen), Roxane (Van), and Teresa (Gregg); grandchildren, Sarah (Dave), Shannon (Travis), Rachel (Josh), Devin (Trent), Mandy (Drew), Damion (Noelle), Erin (Chad), Scotty, Ethan (Heather), Austyn (Justin); and 21 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Bertha; his siblings; his first wife, Donna; his son, Bill; his son-in-law, Duane; and his grandson, Wesley.
A celebration of George’s life will be held at New Hope Lutheran Church, Grantsburg, Wisconsin, on May 27, with visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., service at 11:00 a.m., and burial at Rice Lake Cemetery, Braham, Minnesota.
