George Richard Morris passed into the presence of his Lord on Jan. 29, 2024. He was born on Oct. 20, 1922, to Harry Morris and Leah Ritschard Morris near Walden, Colorado.
George graduated from Colorado State University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in animal science and later a teaching certificate. The attack on Pearl Harbor occurred while he was a freshman at CSU. He enlisted in the Marine Corps and was assigned to the 2nd Marine Division, Platoon 601, from early 1944 until July 1946, serving in the Pacific Theater.
After the war, he found purpose in his life while working on his father’s ranch in Granby, Colorado, when a fellow rancher introduced him to the man, Jesus, who loved sinners and died for them. He first heard John 3:16 and placed his faith in Jesus Christ as his Savior.
He became active in the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, working at Bear Trap Ranch, Colorado Springs, where he met Ardith Rogers. They married in 1956. George’s teaching career began in Colorado. When he moved his family to Washington, he taught in the Battle Ground School District from 1964 to 1980 in Laurin and Amboy intermediate schools.
After retiring, George started Morris Fencing, building fences all around Clark County. He was a member of Charter Oak Church and later attended Battle Ground Baptist Church. He enjoyed his grandchildren, practical jokes and volunteering at Royal Ridges Retreat.
George was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Ardith; his parents, Harry and Leah Morris; and his sister, Mae Walden. He is survived by his children, Jim (Colleen) Morris, Judy Williams and John Morris; nine grandchildren and their spouses; and 20 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service celebrating George’s life will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9, at Battle Ground Baptist Church, 1110 NW Sixth Ave., Battle Ground, Washington. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in George’s honor may be made to Royal Ridges Retreat, PO Box 3010, Battle Ground, WA, 98604.
