George Barch

George L. Barch, beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, was born on October 9, 1934 in Leelanau County, Michigan to Louis and Cecilia Barch. Although George was a talented artist, funds were not available for college so he enlisted in the Air Force at age 18 and was trained as a radio operator. The Air Force took George around the world, eventually landing him in what he considered to be the most beautiful place on earth, the Arizona desert. After completing his enlistment in the Air Force, he returned to Michigan long enough to attend college and marry and finally moved to Arizona permanently in 1957. George held a variety of jobs until 1969 when he founded JG Supply. For those that have always wondered, JG stood for Just George. As a businessman George was noted for honesty, integrity and a willingness to go the extra mile for his customers. He was very proud of his reputation in the farming and business communities and developed lifelong friendships with many of his customers. He retired in 2007 and spent his retirement doing what he loved best, fishing and camping, gardening, playing poker and kicking back in his recliner with a good book and a dog on either side. George began the end of his life on February 3 when he suffered a stroke while at home. After a brief hospitalization, he returned home on February 16 and passed away peacefully on Feb 17 surrounded by his family and his precious dogs Willie and Iggy. He will be deeply missed by his daughter Lori Smithson, son in law John, grandchildren Kristina, Leslie and George Joe, brother Louie, sister in law Linda, nephews Jamie and Joe and the many friends and neighbors who knew and loved him. Interment will be at the National Memorial Cemetery, 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix on March 6 at 1:30 pm. A reception will follow from 3:00-7:00 pm at 3017 N. 86th Ave. George's family welcomes all who knew him to stop by and share a memory and a laugh as they celebrate the life of this wonderful man they've loved so deeply. Also, in lieu of flowers, those who wish to contribute in George's memory to his favorite charity, Disabled American Veterans may do so at www.dav.org or PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH, 45250.