George Wilfred Petering

Feb 18, 1941 -

Feb 20, 2023

It is with great sorrow to announce that George Wilfred Petering, 82, of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away peacefully on Feb. 20, 2023, with his daughter, Jennifer, by his side.

George was born on Feb. 18, 1941, to mother Frances Kirklin Petering and father Wilfred Petering in Cincinnati, Ohio.

George spent most of his childhood in Lake Wales, Fla. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Mississippi and completed his graduate degree in geology from the University of Texas. Simultaneously, George served as a salvage diver in the Navy, and later became the commander of the USS Cohoes during the Vietnam War. George retired as a commander from the Navy Reserves. After the Navy, George was a geologist for Shell Oil and the United States Geological Survey. His work brought him to Alaska, where he worked for the USGS. In 1986, he founded Office Products Services which is one of his living legacies and continues to flourish under Yvonne Spencer's leadership.

George was an avid outdoorsman, whether it be world travel or sailing around Seward, Alaska. He loved all animals, especially dogs. No dog ever went hungry or without treats when he was around.

George was an active member of the Alaska Handball Association and lifelong member of the Alaska Athletic Club. It is through these organizations and his work where he forged many amazing friendships.

George will be remembered for his kind heart, unbreakable spirit and his quick and quirky wit.

George is predeceased by his brother John Petering. He is survived by his sister, Louise Segner; daughter, Jennifer Kearns; son-in-law, Patrick Kearns; grandson, Caleb Kearns; friend and business partner, Yvonne Spencer; and dear friend, Nikki Beckham.

A celebration of life will be forthcoming in spring 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in George's name to the Alaska SPCA, www.alaskaspca.org.