Racine – George D. Sporer, Jr., 86, entered into eternal life surrounded by the love of his family on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at Ridgewood Care Center in Racine.  He was born in Ilion, NY, on March 13, 1925, son of the late George and Muriel (nee: Sitts) Sporer, Sr.

George graduated from high school in 1942.  He then faithfully served his country with the United States Navy.  After his discharge, George attended Syracuse University before coming to Racine in 1973.  He was united in marriage to Mary Lou Hanson on February 27, 1976.  He was a sports fanatic and enjoyed watching all kinds of sports especially football, basketball, baseball, and golf.  George loved biking and enjoyed riding during in his younger years.  He loved working outside on his yard and also enjoyed a good imported beer.  George was a very patient and kind man who enjoyed being in the surroundings of his entire family.

George is survived by his loving wife, Mary Lou Sporer of Racine; children, Susan (Mary) Sporer of Illinois, Sara (Fred) Marienthal of Colorado, Jennifer (Ron) Oosterbaan of Illinois, Abigail (Neal) Wingen of Illinois, Gary (Judy) Smith of Racine, Sally (Glen) Taylor of Mississippi, Karyn (Steve) Gustin of Racine; grandchildren, Ali and Chesca Marienthal of Colorado, Fenner and Tava Ooserbaan of Illinois, Sammy, Tommy, and Matthew Wingen of Illinois, Krysha (Cliff) Weidell of Minnesota, Andrea (Adam) Krueger of Oshkosh, David Smith of Racine, Chad Zimmerman of Racine, Jami (Lenny) Welch of Mississippi, Ashley (David Gergen) Gustin of Sturtevant, Adrienne (Tony) Johansen of Racine; 10 great-grandchildren with one more on the way; sister-in-law, Vicki Schmidt of Racine; and other relatives too numerous to mention.  In addition to his parents, George is preceded in death by his former wife Ruth Fenner-Sporer.

A funeral service with Full Military Honors will take place on Monday, October 10, 2011, 11am, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 725 High Street, with Rev. Susan K. Smith officiating.  Visitation will be at the funeral home on Sunday, October 9, 2011, 4pm until 6pm, and again on Monday from 10am until the time of the service.  Per George's wishes, cremation will take place following the services.  The family has suggested memorials to the Countryside Humane Society in Racine.