George B. Loots

George B. Loots, 74, friend to all, enemy to none, of Manson, IA, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday morning, September 16, 2023, from a heart attack.

Survivors include his sisters Mary Lynn Loots (her partner Daryl Frey), West Des Moines, Ann (Craig) Reese of Morrison, CO, four nephews, two nieces, his Aunt Rita McCarville, West Des Moines, his sister-in-law, Peggy Loots, Lawrenceburg, IN and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, George Loots & Kathryn (McCarville) Loots, and his brother, Pat Loots, grandparents Ben and Lena Loots and Thomas V & Elizabeth McCarville.

George was born on September 21, 1948.  He graduated from St. Edmond High School in 1966. He enlisted in the US Navy from 1968 to 1972 primarily stationed in Guam & and the Gulf of Tonkin. He married Melanie Beagles in Fort Dodge on May 1, 1976. They later divorced. He lived near Mt. Ayr in southern Iowa for several years where he worked with Dale Doster at his sawmill. George returned to the Manson area and was employed by Green Brothers Farms and Rod Reicks Construction. He purchased an acreage northeast of Manson where he lived until his death. He loved his acreage and his many visitors weekly.  Many times, friends heard him say “come to my island” or “I’m not leaving my island this weekend”. His “island” was a place to throw a few beers back, but more importantly it was a safe space for those seeking both comfort and connection.  His door was always open.  George was kind, hilarious, a deep thinker, and a great friend. He loved listening to music and his CD player.  All blues and especially the Allman Brothers were at the top of his preferred music list.  George didn’t own a computer and prided himself on handwriting letters, something he considered a lost art. He was the epitome of a simple and gracious man. 

George, as we bid our final farewell, we celebrate a life well-lived and the lasting impact you had on us all.  You will be deeply missed by many.  Rest in peace George. Godspeed.

A graveside gathering will be held at Hope Cemetery southeast of Manson at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted with Larson-Weishaar Funeral Home.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of George B. Loots, please visit our floral store.