In Memoriam
George Whitfield
1938-2017
Former Warner Norcross and Judd attorney George Lee Whitfield, affectionately called “Poppa Georgie,” passed away peacefully on March 13, 2017, surrounded by his family. He was 79.
Born in Lake Wales, Florida, in 1938, he received his Juris Doctorate from Vanderbilt University School of Law in 1963 and practiced at Warner Norcross for over 52 years. There he was known as the “Dean of Employee Benefits,” and will be remembered for his tremendous kindness to others, his humble spirit, and his generosity. He received numerous accolades and awards, including Fellow of the American College of Employee Benefits Counsel in 2011. He was dedicated to his pro bono work; he was a gifted writer, a beautiful speaker, and a voracious reader. He described his work at Warner Norcross as the “fabric of my life.”
Whitfield was also an Adjunct Professor at Grand Valley State University, which brought him much enjoyment. He made a profound impact through his gentleness, eccentricity, and warmth. His unassuming demeanor belied a deep sensitivity. He saw beauty in so much of the world around him, and he had a curiosity and wonderment that kept his soul vibrant into his later years. Aviation fascinated him and he followed the Blue Angels for decades. He was a great lover of music: seeing Leonard Cohen, Lyle Lovett, Greensky Bluegrass, and many others were lifetime highlights.
He had fond memories of an idyllic childhood in central Florida, spending his days water skiing on Crooked Lake. His passion for water skiing lives on in the many friends and family he taught throughout the years.
Whitfield was preceded in death by his son, John. He is survived by his wife, Anita; sister Sally (Victor Miranda); children Elizabeth Whitfield, Susie and Robert Bodnar, Sky Atwood, Aaron and Rosalba Atwood, Wendy Whitfield, George Lee and Molly Whitfield; and eight grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Mackenzie's Animal Sanctuary, 8935 Thompson Rd., Lake Odessa, MI 48849.
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