LAKE ANN — George Russell Wilkie, 88, of Lake Ann, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2011, at Munson Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. George was born April 22, 1923, in Dearborn, to the late Frank and Elva (Shafer) Wilkie. He was married to Betty Louise Frazier for 55 years. They were united in marriage on Aug. 9, 1947, in Highland Park. Together they lovingly raised two children, Dennis and Deborah. George honorably served our country in World War II in the United States Army. He was deployed to France in December of 1944 in the 66th Infantry Division for reconnaissance missions. After his time in service he worked and met his wife at Massy Ferguson in the public relations department. Later he went into the insurance industry. He was also the President of the Detroit Agricultural Club in 1963. George was a longtime member at Lake Ann United Methodist Church. He will be fondly remembered as a dedicated Christian who enjoyed witnessing to others, especially to his good friends at Woodside. Fishing, spending time with his special friend, Geneva, dog, Barney and taking rides on his pontoon boat were some of George's favorite pastimes. He also truly treasured spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.Surviving George are his daughter, Deborah (Richard) Weir; daughter-in-law, Cheri Wilkie; grandchildren, Jeni Weir, Jesi (Yenson) Schwab, Juli Weir, Joni (Dan) Scott, Max (Julia) Weir, Michael (Lucy) Weir, Morgan Weir, Todd (Nicole) Wilkie and Lorie (Chris) Minidis; great-grandchildren, Skylar, Heidi, Bailey, Jaden, Malorie, Emma, Griffin, Grayson, Madison, Mackenzie, Cammie, Megan, Nicholas, Brooke and Nathen; and his brother, Robert Wilkie. George was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; and son, Dennis.Funeral services will take place today, Nov. 17, 2011, at 1:30 p.m., at the Lake Ann United Methodist Church in the village of Lake Ann. Visitation will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m., prior to the funeral. Pastor Devon Harrell will serve as officiant. Burial will take place at Greenbriar Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to Lake Ann United Methodist Church. Please sign George's online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com . The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.