TRAVERSE CITY – George D. Townsend, age 84, of Traverse City, passed away Saturday, March 18, 2017 at the Munson Medical Center in the loving care of his family.
George was born in Champaign, IL to George and Lily (Smith) Townsend on August 31, 1932.
George grew up in Urbana, IL and graduated from Urbana high school in 1950. Following his graduation from high school George enlisted in the United State Marine Corps as a clarinetist in the president's own marine band. George earned his; bachelors, masters, and doctorate, and was a professor of music at Western Illinois University. He taught at the Interlochen Arts Camp during the summer months. George traveled all around the world as a part of, The Camerata Woodwind Quintet, and judged competitions all over the world. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Traverse City, International Clarinet Society, and the Presbyterian Church where he was an elder. George loved to; boat, golf, and fish out on Duck Lake with his family. George had an infectious laugh and wonderful sense of humor, he loved spending time with his family and friends telling jokes and having a good time.
George is survived by his children; Kathy (Matthew) Karr, and David (Diane) Townsend, grandchildren; Laura Karr, and Daniel (Kassi) Karr, great-grandchildren; Noah Karr, and Harper Karr, and partner, Pat Uhlhorn. George was preceded in death by his parents, and former wife, Joyce Gerstung Russell.
A celebration of George's life will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, May 11, 2017 at the Presbyterian Church in Traverse City, with a visitation one hour prior. A luncheon will be held in the reception hall located at the church following the service.
The family asks that memorial contributions be directed to; Kiwanis Club of Traverse City, P.O. Box 864, Traverse City, Michigan, 49685, and the Presbyterian Church, 701 Westminster Road, Traverse City, MI 49686.