Shakespeare, George B. 'Shakey'

George B. “Shakey” Shakespeare, 82, of Palo, died suddenly at his home Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013. Services: 1:30 p.m. Monday at Papich-Kuba Janeba Chapel West, 1604 J St. SW, Cedar Rapids, with the Rev. Lloyd Brockmeyer officiating. Burial: Czech National Cemetery, Cedar Rapids. Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the funeral chapel.

George is survived by his wife, Mary; children, Dawn (Larry) Bender, Cedar Rapids, Diane Voss, Palo, and her former husband, Dan Voss, Shellsburg, Dorothy Workman, Hiawatha, and her former husband, Orlie Workman, Palo, Dennis (Kim) Shakespeare, Shellsburg, Debbie (Tracy) Langguth, Cedar Rapids, and Donna (Larry) Frantz, Cedar Rapids; a brother, David (Mary) Shakespeare, Midway; 17 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents, A.B. (Ben) and Irma Shakespeare.

George was born April 22, 1930, in Cedar Rapids, and attended local schools. He married Mary Lou Comp in Kahoka, Mo. in 1949.

George was a member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 125 in Cedar Rapids for over 40 years. Before that he was owner of Shakespeare Service (automotive repair) and also S & S Sinclair Station, and was a welder for Iowa Steel Works. George was also very proud to be a special deputy for the Linn County Sheriffs' Department for 15 years.

In his younger years, George was a musician in “Shakey's Rhythm Ranch Gang” band and also for the Jack Mordorst Band and occasionally with other bands. He was a country music enthusiast.

George was a member of the Eagles Club and a 50-year member of Lodge Karel IV 13 Z.C.B.J.

When he was younger, he loved riding his motorcycle. He also enjoyed camping, fishing, playing cards and especially enjoyed spending time with his family. His family was always very important to him.

A memorial fund has been established in George's name.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.papich-kubafs.com under “obituaries.”

Published March 2, 2013 in The Gazette