Obituary of George Frederick Moon

George Frederick Moon, entered into the presence of his Savior on Monday morning, February 13, 2023, in Grinnell.  George was born August 12, 1920, in Knoxville, Iowa, the son of John Santford and Maude Elizabeth (Moon) Moon.  He grew up near Attica and was a graduate of Knoxville High School, Class of 1937.  He served his country with the US Army during World War II and was stationed in Guadalcanal.  He also served during the Korean War and for many years to follow with the Army Reserve, retiring as Lieutenant Colonel.  

   On June 7, 1942, George was united in marriage to Ellen Larsen in Unionville, Missouri and began their adventurous life together.  Ellen traveled with George all over the country as a war bride and they never ran out of stories to tell from this time.  They welcomed their son, George II, into the world after World War II and daughter, Melody, after the Korean War.  George was a loving and hands-on father and especially enjoyed building cars with George II and teaching Melody how to drive.   

   George was an artist.  His memories were an inspiration for many of his paintings which included historical landmarks, some of which you can find displayed around town.  He created an intricate train set in his basement that his grandkids and visitors loved.  With his creativity and mechanical inclination, he could fix anything around the house, often creating his own inventions using household items.    

  George spent most of his career as a manufacturing engineer for Maytag in Newton.  After retiring from Maytag, he and Ellen enjoyed spending winters in Florida for many years.  He was an avid golfer and enjoyed sharing the sport with his family and friends.  George and Ellen lived a full life together for 79 years.  George was always devoted to Ellen and faithfully cared for her throughout their time together.  He and Ellen were very active at Immanuel Baptist Church in Newton and their faith in God and their love for one another were keys to their longevity.  

   He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Ellen on January 22, 2022; his son George F. Moon II, on May 10, 2018; and his siblings: Beatrice Bingham, Ruby Holdsworth, Lucille Hegwood, Edna Smith and Paul Moon.    

   A visitation with the family will be 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., service time, Monday, February 20, 2023, at Pence – Reese Funeral Home in Newton.  A celebration of life funeral service will be held 10:30 a.m., Monday, at the funeral home.  Military honors will be conducted by the Newton American Legion Honor Guard.  Memorials are being designated to Immanuel Baptist Church, Hope Ministries or to a charity of your choosing.    

   Those left to honor George’s memory include his daughter Melody (David) Bonenberger; daughter-in-law Faye Moon; his grandchildren: James Collin Moon, Karen Moon and Rachel Moon; five great-grandchildren: Evan Moon, Ethan Moon, Easton Moon, Kaelie Spallholtz and Austin Moon Raabe; and his many extended family and friends.