George Vorovka

A Celebration of Life for George Vorovka, 94, Lawrence, will be at 2:30 pm Saturday at Smith Center at Brandon Woods at Alvamar. Mr. Vorovka died peacefully on Thursday, Feb. 9, 2017, at his home.

He was born Mar. 4, 1922, in Hemingford, Neb., the son of Alois and Marie Stumpf Vorovka, who were immigrants from Czechoslovakia. He graduated from high school in Hemingford, and later served in the United States Navy during World War II, stationed in Pensacola, Fla. George was an officer in the Navy during World War II serving as a Naval Aviator and flight instructor, flying SNJ’s and PBY’s. He served in the Naval Reserves until 1955. He continued his love for flying as a commercial charter pilot. George farmed, and worked for Investors Diversified before joining AAA as a travel insurance agent. He retired in 1986 after 19 years of service. He was a member of the Shriners, Masons, and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. George enjoyed flying, travel, Ham radio, carpentry, polka dancing, and spending time with grandsons.

George married Evelyn L. Lange on June 29, 1945, in Hemingford. She survives of the home. Other survivors include a son, David Vorovka, Lincoln, Neb.; a daughter, Cheri Thompson and husband Mike, Lawrence, and two grandsons, Tony and Tim Thompson. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Louise Nekuda.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the Brandon Woods Employee Recognition Fund, in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home & Crematory, 601 Indiana St., Lawrence, KS, 66044. Online condolences may be sent at rumsey-yost.com