George D. Gittings

of Philip, South Dakota, died on Sunday, December 25, 2016
near his home north of Philip at the age of 72

George Daniel Gittings was born March 25, 1944, the fourth of six children born to Lawrence and Margaret (O’Connell) Gittings, in Philip, South Dakota. He grew up two miles west of Billsburg and attended Hart School, before graduating from Philip High School in 1962. He was a part of the move from the old high school to the Armory. They gladly signed his diploma to get him out of there.

George joined the National Guards, and spent six months at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri for his basic training, and was stationed at Philip. He farmed and ranched with his dad and brothers until 1968.

On October 5, 1968, he was united in marriage to Sandee Blair in Philip, South Dakota. They made their home on the Gebes ranch two miles south of his parents farm-ranch. In 1971, George worked for Tom Foley for a year before working for Sandee’s dad and his dad, until May of 1974, when they moved to the Homer Wood place where they made their home until moving to the Missile Control Center two miles east in 2008. When they moved, they also ran the Missile Inn Bed and Breakfast at their home. This fit right into George’s main activity of visiting with people. George was never afraid to help out anyone, and was a good neighbor to everyone. He also enjoyed teaching the grandkids how to drive a tractor and helped during the haying season.

George was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Philip. He was a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus since 1962. He served as Grand Knight in 1967-1968, and has been the treasurer for the last 45 years. He also sold the majority of the football books as a fundraiser for the Knights for years. He was the Haakon County President of SD Farmer’s Union for over 30 years. He very much enjoyed going to Minnesota Twins game and was proud of the fact he made it to the Metrodome to watch the Broncos play the Vikings. You could always find George with a Pepsi and Hershey’s mini candy bars for the kids.

Survivors include his wife Sandee of Philip; two children Robin Gittings and fiance Kristi Eden of Philip, and Roxie Gittings of Rapid City; three grandchildren Jessica (Wade) McGruder, Kelsey (Bryce Dickerson) Gittings, and Kinsey (special friend Reanna Rogers) Gittings ; four great-grandchildren Daniel, Melodie, Kohen, and Jace; one sister Peggy Hook and her husband Dwilyn “PeeWee” of Philip; three brothers Leo Gittings of Florence, Arizona, Charles Gittings and his wife Diane of Summerset, and Joe Gittings and his wife Kathy of Philip; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.

George was preceded in death by his parents Lawrence and Margaret (O’Connell) Gittings; a brother Larry Gittings in 1939; a sister-in-law Judith “Judie” Gittings; and a nephew Jamie L. “Spud” Gittings.

A visitation will be held Thursday, December 29 from 5-7 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Philip with a prayer service at 7 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, December 30 at 11 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Service Details

VISITATION
Thursday, December 29 - 5-7 p.m.
with a prayer service at 7 p.m.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Philip, South Dakota

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL
Friday, December 30, 2016 - 11:00 a.m.
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Philip, South Dakota

CELEBRANT
Father Gary Oreshoski

MUSIC
Maureen Palecek - Vocalist
Marianne Frein - Pianist
“In The Garden”
“I Am the Bread” - #364
“O Holy Night”
“Prayer of St. Francis” - #522
“Amazing Grace” - #431
“Lead Me, Lord” - #628
“When Irish Eyes Are Smiling”

LECTOR
Kara Moriarty

EURCHARISTIC MINISTERS
Lester Pearson - Phil Carley

ALTAR SERVERS
Joseph Moriarty - Margaret Moriarty

GIFT BEARERS
Dan Schofield - DJ Rush

USHERS
Henry Hanson - Ed Morrison - Brian Hanson

HONORARY PALLBEARERS
The Philip Knights of Columbus Council #2679

Guest Book

Dear Sandee, Roxie and Robin and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. My deepest sympathy goes out to all of you.

   ~ Tracey Paulsen Spearfish (12/30/2016)
Sandee, Robin, Roxie and family. So sorry to hear of your loss. George will always be remembered with a smile on his face and a friendly visit. We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers
   ~ Sonny and Betty LaBeau Philip (12/30/2016)
What a shock to read of George's passing! Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. When I think of George Gittings I think of a man that always had a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye, if he ever had a bad day I never saw it! Hold your memories close and your loved ones closer.
   ~ Tom and Jane Aasby Rapid City (12/27/2016)
Sandee, Robin, Roxie & Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I have lots of good memories of George. He was a kind and generous person and will be missed by all who knew him. He was a big part of the Philip community. May you find comfort in your memories of him. Prayers to you all.
   ~ Sherry Hanson Spearfish, SD (12/28/2016)
We were saddened to here of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. George will be greatly missed
   ~ Bob and Susan Marrington Riverton, Wyo. (12/28/2016)
Sandee, Roxi, Robin (and family)
Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. George was an awesome man and he sure was a teaser. He could always make me giggle. I have fond memories of George and all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

   ~ Doug and Jennifer (Elshere) Kennedy Las Vegas, NV (1/3/2017)
Sandee and family: sorry to hear about George passing away.George and I hung around together when I worked at the Phillip Hospital in 1965.We were very close friends back then.Road horse together with Bobbie and Diane Anderson(Deuchar).I had great respect for Georgre and will miss his smile. Due to weather conditions ,I may not make it to his funeral. With sympathy
   ~ Dennis l. MILLER Mandan,N.D. (12/28/2016)
Sandee, Robin, Roxie and family. So sorry to hear of your loss. George will always be remembered with a smile on his face and a friendly visit. We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers
   ~ Sonny and Betty LaBeau Philip (12/30/2016)
Sorry for your loss, keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers.
   ~ Susan (Kroetch) Newsome Virginia (12/28/2016)
Sending hugs and prayers to you all. I will always remember George as a kind and giving man who was always there when his friends and neighbors needed a hand. Always invited me in for a cup of coffee and cake (or whatever it was Sandee was baking that day). Always welcoming and always friendly. May he rest in peace.
   ~ Connie (Martinson) Gerard Edgemont, SD (12/28/2016)
I am so sad to hear of this loss. I didn't know him personally. I do know how much he was loved and admired by his grandson, Ken. I've heard wonderful stories of his goodness. May his family find peace in lovely memories.
   ~ Rachel Scott Des Moines, Iowa (12/28/2016)
Sending prayers to you and your family. So sorry for your loss. May God wrap his comforting arms around you all.
   ~ Barb Bowen Philip (12/29/2016)
Sending thoughts and prayers your way on the passing of George. He had many stories and always a smile.
   ~ Linda Stilwell Kadoka, SD (1/18/2017)
George was a wonderful person, always laughing & smiling. Sandee & family, be glad you had the opportunity to share that time with George, remember how he completed you.
   ~ LYNN BRIGGS (12/28/2016)
so very sorry for the loss of someone so special...our hearts and prayers go to all of you...God bless you all...
   ~ nancy neville philip,sd (12/29/2016)
What a shock to hear of George's passing. Our sincere condolence, and prayers are with Sandy an all the family. I have great and fond memories growing up with George. As many have written, he was kind and outgoing with a passion for assistance to whomever he could help.
   ~ Kent and Fairchild Lemoore, CA (12/28/2016)
Sandie and family: So sorry to hear of your loss. He was immediately a friend and so willing to oblige. Will never forget his being the first to help us retrace the Deadwood-Ft.Pierre trail back in 2008. You both were so enthusiastic about opening the Missile site Bed and Breakfast at that time. He will be wee-remembered by all of us who knew him. Rest in peace, friend. Lonis Wendt
   ~ Lonis & Lois Wendt 502 S. Main Ave, Vivian, SD (12/28/2016)
So sorry for your loss George was such a friendly guy he will be missed by all prayers to all of you
   ~ Selma Thorson Philip (12/29/2016)
Didn't know George personally but....my son works for the sale barn during sale days and he mentioned to me the other day about how George always bought sandwiches for everybody in the back pens. That is a true godly man. So I say may Gods love embrace you and your family and I am truly praying for you and yours.
   ~ Jim Jones Kadoka (1/5/2017)
Dear Sandee and all of George's family, The beauty of the flowers sent and the number of floral tributes say so much about George. So many paid tribute to a generous man who always had time for others. Keep your memories alive by telling "George" stories ... there are so many good ones!

   ~ Julie Minard Long Beach, CA (1/2/2017)
My thoughts and prayers at this sad time for George's family. He was a classmate of mine. George was always so friendly and kind and sincerely interested in how you had been even after many years of not seeing each other. Always a big smile! May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead.
   ~ Mary Lou (McKay) Fellows Puyallup, Washington (12/28/2016)
Thinking of you and very sorry for your loss.
   ~ Sandy Bartscher NASS Emery, SD (12/27/2016)
Oh, Sandy I'am sorry to hear of the loss of your sweetheart. My thoughts and prayers are with you always.
   ~ Jackie Shull Wall, SD (12/29/2016)
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. So sorry for your loss.
   ~ Shelli and Michael Lind Gillette Wy (12/28/2016)
So sorry to hear of George's passing, since I was a little kid I remember, He always had a smile on his face and Pepsi in hand and he made the room brighter. May God bless and keep you in this time of mourning.
   ~ Ed Harty Hermosa SD (12/28/2016)
We are so sorry to here of George's passing he was one of the first people we met when we moved to Philip and he made us feel so welcome, I will always think of George when I see a pepsi. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
   ~ Mike and Dawn Hansen Philip,SD (12/28/2016)
My heart aches for you all. Praying and asking for God's love and light to surround you all.
   ~ Cathy (Schofield) Thrash Rapid City, SD (12/28/2016)
I am truly saddened by the loss of George he's was a wonderful man to talk to my thoughts and prayers go out to his family may God give you the strength to get through this tough time
   ~ Erica strehlow Kadokasd / groveton tx (1/2/2017)
I have fond memories of your loving kindness shown me when I was a wild teenager. Thank you for being a part of my growing experience.
   ~ Beckie Boring, OR (1/1/2017)
It was such a shock to hear of your tragic loss. May the memories that you hold carry you through these difficult times.
   ~ Nancy Ekstrum Green Valley, AZ (1/4/2017)
Sandee, Robin ,Roxie and Family. Was so sadden to hear of George passing. So many great memories and good visits with him. He will be missed by his loving family and the community. George was a very special person and loved by many. God Bless you all.
   ~ Ralph & Cathy Fiedler 2130 Ellen St. Sturgis,S.D. (12/28/2016)
so sorry to hear about George he was a great person I have known him all my life
   ~ bob and sandy anderson hermosa sd (12/28/2016)
Didn't know George personally but....my son works for the sale barn during sale days and he mentioned to me the other day about how George always bought sandwiches for everybody in the back pens. That is a true godly man. So I say may Gods love embrace you and your family and I am truly praying for you and yours.
   ~ Jim Jones Kadoka (1/5/2017)
Sandee and family, Justin was reminiscing about Guard Camp with George. He said they could all count on George's good humor, willingness to help, and his kindness. He will be missed. Thoughts and prayers for all of you.
   ~ Justin and Joyce Wheeler 24208 Fairview Rd (12/30/2016)
Thinking of you and very sorry for your loss.
   ~ Sandy Bartscher NASS Emery, SD (12/28/2016)
Sandee and family. We are so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in the coming days as you gather to celebrate his life and passion for agriculture. Wish we coul be there for you.
   ~ Bill and Marsha Sumpter Kadoka (12/28/2016)
Sandee, Robin and Roxi, So sorry for your loss. Thinking of you. ❤
   ~ Shawn Fitzgerald Memphis, TN (12/28/2016)
Sandy and family I am so sorry for your loss. I always liked it when he came in to T-34 when I worked there. He was so full of life and I enjoyed talking to him whenever we ran into him. May the Holy Spirit wrap his arms around you and give you comfort during this hard time.
   ~ Amanda Neville Rapid city (12/27/2016)
Thoughts and prayers for Sandee and her family!!!!
   ~ Marcia and Loren Stulken Highmore, SD (12/28/2016)
What a kind and generous neighbor George was. He will be missed. Prayers to your family.
   ~ Dwight and Marie Slovek family Philip (12/28/2016)
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. There are no words to express my deepest sympathy.
George always had a warm smile and hug for me every time I saw him. Such a loving man that loved his family. He was so proud! I will cherish all my fond memories. All my love, Lori

   ~ Lori Carlson Minnesota (12/27/2016)
So sorry to hear about George, he will be missed. Hold onto all the memories, you are all in our prayers.
   ~ Les & Joann Pearso Philip, SD (12/28/2016)
sorry to hear the news. I will be thinking and praying for you all. He is was and always will be a great man.
   ~ Spencer Huston Rapid City SD (12/28/2016)
Sandie, Robin and Roxie. So sorry to hear about your loss. George was always there yo help others, and cheer you up. Always enjoyed a visit and pepsi with him.
   ~ Rose and Glen Bennett Philip, SD (12/28/2016)
Sending thoughts and prayers your way on the passing of George. He had many stories and always a smile.
   ~ Linda Stilwell Kadoka, SD (12/28/2016)
So very sorry for your loss. I have great memories of growing up with George. He was a good man. May you find peace and comfort at this difficult time.
   ~ Chuck Smith Darrington, WA (12/28/2016)
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your husband, Dad, Grandpa and friend. We will continue to keep you all in our prayers.
   ~ Darren and Lynn Paulson Rapid City (12/28/2016)
Am so sorry for your loss.
   ~ Julie Moses Brown Fairmont, Ne (12/28/2016)
My deepest sympathies Sandee, Roxy & Robin. I was saddened to hear the news today of George's passing. I will always remember George. Our trips out west to stay at the bed and breakfast will not be the same without him.
   ~ Rob Maher Sioux Falls, SD (1/4/2017)
Rest in Piece Good Friend
   ~ Phil & Joann Stark Cottonwood (12/28/2016)
So sorry to hear about your loss.
   ~ Jackie Goldie NASS Crocker SD (12/27/2016)
Sandi and family
Our hearts ache for you all! George had the biggest heart in the world, he would do anything for anyone. We always enjoyed visiting with George whenever we were home for a visit, he always had a story to share about Grandma and Grandpa Bodkin or a story about the fun the kids all had growing up. May our Lord wrap his arms around you all to give you the strength to get your through the next days ahead! You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

   ~ Don and Wanda Moses (12/28/2016)
So, so sorry for your loss, Charlie and family. Our love and prayers are with you.

   ~ Susan Ostenson Edgemont, SD (12/28/2016)
George was truly a super guy who I remember well from hauling fuel and propane to when I worked for my Dad and Uncle. He will be dearly missed bye his family, friends and the community! George seem to always have a smile and would always say HI if he seen you or even strike up a conversation. Thoughts and Prayers to the family.
   ~ Leslie O'Connell Rapid City, South Dakota (12/28/2016)
Sandee, thinking of you and your family and praying you can find peace in knowing George is still watching over you. God bless you all.
   ~ Doris and Ray Matz Sagle, Idaho (12/31/2016)
You will be missed my friend.
   ~ Greg Utterback Lenox Iowa (12/28/2016)
Sorry to her of George's passing. May the love of family and friends help comfort you at this time.
   ~ Dave & Karen Webb Rapid City, SD (12/28/2016)
We were saddened to learn of George's passing. Remember the good times and always keep them in your heart.

   ~ Jim and Vonnie O'Dea Howes, SD (12/28/2016)
Sandee,
We are very Saddened to hear of George passing away. We have fond Memories of him from when we lived in South Dakota. May the Lord Bless you all during your time of sorrow.

   ~ Jeff & Maria Willer Jamestown ND (12/28/2016)
Dear Sandee and family, I'm so sorry to hear the sad news of George's passing. I could always count on a good story and a laugh whenever I saw him. He was one of a kind and will be missed by so many.
   ~ Karen Hanson Rapid City SD (12/31/2016)
Dear Sandee, I just read my emails to learn of George's passing. My sincere sympathy to you and your family. May our Lord keep you and bless you as we go forward always. Peace be with you.
   ~ Lynn Frey Lemmon,SD (12/31/2016)
Thoughts and prayers from our house. May His grace lift you up and bring you peace in this difficult time.
   ~ Barb and Megan Dundas Parkston, SD (12/27/2016)
I was so very saddened to hear of George's passing. I will always remember the good visit we had and how he enjoyed showing us around. May God surround you with His comfort and love.
   ~ Bertha Snively Mesa, AZ (12/28/2016)
This is so sad! I know what it is like to lose a parent, sibling, uncle and the list goes on. It hurts your heart. Hold the fond memories close and let them help heal you. I know there are many. George will go down in history as making kids to old folks happy with his home churned ice cream. I can't recall a family even that he attended when he didn't have that churn with him. Hugs to you all!
   ~ Stacy Dole Black Hawk (12/27/2016)
George was always a kind and thoughtful person. He was willing to help anyone at any time. I will always have fond memories of him.
   ~ BOYD WAARA 22217 11 MILE RD, BOX 369 (12/28/2016)
Sandee, will miss George at the sale barn. He loved his family and always had a story or two to tell. I bet he is kicking back and drinking pepsi and having a slice of pie! Prayers to you all.
   ~ Ron and Connie Twiss Interior SD (12/28/2016)
Sympathy to all of George's family. Have known them all for many years. Keeping them in our prayers at this sad time.
   ~ Cork & Bev Jahner Kerrville, Texas (12/28/2016)
Sandee and family...so sorry to hear of George's passing. May your memories bring a smile to your faces as time goes on. Sending good thoughts and wishes that you will find laughter in the future as you recall the good times.
   ~ Karen Pearson Rapid City (1/12/2017)
Dear Sandee, Roxie and Robin and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. My deepest sympathy goes out to all of you.

   ~ Tracey Paulsen Spearfish (12/29/2016)
Sandee and family. I am sorry for your loss. Our hunting trips will not be the same. I always enjoyed talking with George and sharing hunting stories. Your family is my thoughts a prayers.
   ~ Greg Wolbrink Sioux Falls, SD (1/19/2017)
George was always fun to be around and the wonderful brother-in-law. We enjoyed visiting and hunting with him as a guide. Willing to help out where he could. Love and prayers to my sister and her family at this time.
   ~ John & Diane Boheman Sioux Falls, SD (12/28/2016)
Sandee and family,
So sorry to hear such dad news. George was one of a kind. Seemed he always had a good story to share. I appreciated both of you during my time in Philip. May your hearts find comfort in this sad time.

   ~ Denise Perryman Isabel, SD (12/28/2016)
I will forever remember his warmth, gregarious laugh, kindness and sense of family. My sincerest condolences to each of you. Always know he touched many lives and hearts, including mine. With love ~ Melissa
   ~ Melissa Rathbun Longwood, FL (12/28/2016)
So sorry for the loss of George. What a nice guy.
   ~ Ralph dirksen Philip sd (12/30/2016)

Flowers

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Wall Building Center
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Ron and Connie Twiss
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Statewide NASDA Group
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Corky & Zoni Thorson and Families, and Jenn Schaefer and Families
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The Sandy Family
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Roghair Area NASDA Team
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Monique, Steve, Matthew and Rachel Uttecht
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Phil and Joann Stark
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The Gittings Cousins - "Uncle"
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Marj, Phyllis & Kelly, Tracy & Renee, Troy & Carla, and Families
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LuAnn & Rich Rohner, Mike & Margie Burns, James Burns, and Kathy & Mark Wood
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The Crooner Family
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The Class of 1962
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Granny Scott and Amy Scott
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Philip Livestock Auction
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Suzy and Wayne Bartscher
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Darrin & Melissa Tille
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All the employees at Midwest Coop in Philip
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Peggy Hauk Families
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Shaun, Angel, and Sherrie
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Joe & Kathy, Charles & Diane, Peggy & PeeWee, and Leo & Sandra - "Brother"
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Jody, Scott, and Paul Seidenstricker
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Lynn and Connie Weishaar
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John and Diane
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Ernie's Building Center - Tyler and Angel Nemec
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The Radway’s - Sandy, Tom, Todd, Stacy, Mark and Families