George Walter Eng, 94, of Grantsburg, Wisconsin passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Born on October 28, 1930, in Pine County, Minnesota, George lived a life marked by resilience, hard work, and an unwavering love for his family and community.

George was the son of Bertha and Walter Eng and grew up on the family’s 120-acre dairy farm in Rock Creek, Minnesota, alongside his five siblings—Audrey, Clyde, Doris, Jeanne, and Dennis. From an early age, George learned the values of hard work and determination, milking cows, tending crops, and embracing the joys and challenges of farm life. His childhood was filled with adventures, including a memorable story where his mother threatened that if his outfit muddy, he would have to wear his sister's dress, well he looked good in that dress—a story that perfectly captured his playful spirit and willingness to push boundaries.

A natural athlete, George attended Rush City High School, where he excelled in multiple sports. Known for his striking good looks, charm, and athletic ability, he became a local legend, holding track records, shining on the football field, and standing out as a premier baseball star. He was even crowned homecoming king—a testament to his popularity and charisma. His love for baseball continued long after high school, where he played town ball and led his teams to state championships—winning with Braham in 1957 and Cushing in 1963. George’s pitching strength was celebrated, and his stories of the diamond were shared with joy throughout his life.

George’s passion for sports extended beyond baseball. An avid golfer, he played the game he loved until the age of 93. On Father's Day in 2011, George experienced an unforgettable moment on the golf course, using a club handcrafted by his late son Bill. With that special club, he made his first hole-in-one on the 9th hole at Grantsburg Golf Course—an incredible memory made even more meaningful by the connection to his son. Not content with just one, George went on to achieve a second hole-in-one at the age of 81.

George also loved hunting and well into his 90s he spent hours in deer stands, doing drives and dreaming of that big buck. Many family and friends have fond memories of hunting with George.

Known for his sharp mind, quick wit, and a seemingly endless supply of one-liners, George was always ready with a joke, leaving those around him smiling.

George’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. An avid Christian, he was a devoted member of New Hope Lutheran Church in Grantsburg, WI. Whether attending in person or, post-COVID watching services from the comfort of his recliner, George’s faith was unwavering and a source of strength for him.

George’s career began as a machinist in Minneapolis, but he found his true professional home at McNally Industries in Grantsburg, Wisconsin, where he worked for over 30 years. His commitment to craftsmanship and precision led him to establish his own machine shop in Braham in 1976, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic.

In the early 1950s, George met Donna Erbstoesser, a young woman from Braham who quickly captured his heart. The two married and built a life together, welcoming three children—Beth, Bill, and Max. After Donna's passing, George found love again with Sandy Norenberg, a longtime friend who became his partner in life. They married on September 9, 1989, and built a beautiful home together in Pickle Lake, where they shared a love of family, dancing, gardening—especially their gladiola gardens—and time on the lake.

With Sandy, George welcomed her children, Barry, Roxane, and Teresa, creating a warm, blended family filled with love. His role as a father and grandfather expanded even further in 2016 when he received a letter from Scott Buchanan, a man searching for his parents. George, with his characteristic kindness, helped Scott search through the family tree. To their surprise and joy, a paternity test revealed Scott was his son—an unexpected but cherished blessing. Scott, his wife Karen, and their children Sarah, Scotty, and Erin were warmly embraced by George and the entire family.

George is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy; his children, Scott Buchanan (Karen), Beth Meyer, and Max Eng (Carole); his step-children, Barry Norenberg (Colleen), Roxane Brock (Van), Teresa Eastin (Gregg); his grandchildren, Sarah Caldwell (Dave), Shannon Full (Travis), Rachel Yonak (Josh), Devin Meyer (Trent), Mandy Friendshuh (Drew), Damion Meyer (Noelle), Erin Stachowicz (Chad), Scotty Buchanan, Ethan Eng (Heather), Austyn Bosman (Justin); his step-grandchildren, Chaz Norenberg (Mary), Olivia Brock, Maddy Eastin, Joshua Eastin, Jonah Eastin; and his great-grandchildren, Emmah, Alexah, Mason, Izzy, Roger, Will, Landon, Gigi, Easton, Finley, Oliver, Wyatt, Beckett, Tarek, Stella, Camryn, Owen, Vaughn, Crosby, Willa, Jax, Grant, Quinn, Ayda and Milo.

George was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Bertha; his siblings, Audrey, Clyde, Doris, Jeanne, and Dennis; his first wife, Donna; his son, Bill; his son-in-law, Duane; and his grandson, Wesley.

A celebration of George’s life will be held at New Hope Lutheran Church, Grantsburg, WI, on May 27, 2025. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with a luncheon and fellowship from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow the luncheon at Rice Lake Cemetery, Braham, MN.

Last Update: May 12, 2025 1:26 pm CDT