George Brinkerhoff

George Howard Brinkerhoff, 86, passed away on July 29, 2016 in St. George, Utah. He was born on October 22, 1929 to Peter Brinkerhoff and Marjorie Zina Howard in Salt Lake City, Utah. The family moved to Spring Canyon, Utah, where Peter worked in the coal mines for many years. They returned to Salt Lake City, where he attended Granite High School. Dad joined the Navy and was part of the Seabees. Upon his discharge in 1951, he was designated as a Construction Electrician Petty Officer 2nd Class.

After his military service, he married his sweetheart, Dolores Marie Ross on May 9, 1952 in Salt Lake City. The marriage was solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple. Together they raised three children, having many adventures camping, boating and sightseeing. Their love of the ocean took them often to San Diego, California, where wonderful memories were shared.

Together, Dad and Mom built homes in Taylorsville and Holladay, Utah. In 1989, they retired to St. George, building their home in Bloomington. They lived 57 happy years together. Dolores passed away in 2009, and George was never the same. His heart was broken, and he has yearned for her ever since. They are enjoying a wonderful reunion.

Dad was a proud member of IBEW Local Union 354 for 60 Years. He was a loyal and meticulous employee and enjoyed his trade. He was very proud when his only son, Robert, followed in his footsteps. Dad loved spending time at Lake Powell, camping and boating with his family. He particularly enjoyed his annual fishing trip to Shoshone Lake in Yellowstone Park with his son. He was an avid hunter and outdoorsman.

The greatest success of his life is the love he shared with his grandchildren. Each one felt as if they were his favorite. He had nicknames for them, and to this day, every grandchild adores their grandpa. He recognized the importance of relationships, and that is what he took with him. He will be sorely missed.

He is survived by his three children: Robert Brinkerhoff (Kim), Linda Christensen (Alan, deceased), Bonnie Hobson (William), 32 grandchildren and one great granddaughter. He is also survived by his sisters, Coleen B. McLendon and Margie Ruth Rich, both of Salt Lake City. He was preceded in death by his eternal companion, Dolores Marie Brinkerhoff; his parents; his sisters, Lois Lyn and Dawna Lee Brinkerhoff; and his brother, Duane Brinkerhoff.

Many thanks to Mary Sanders at Beehive Cottages, Randy and Patrick Jackman at Autumn Park Assisted Living, and Randi Gledhill with Community Nursing Services. Your loving care meant everything to him. We are eternally grateful.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, August 13th at 9 a.m. at the Tonaquint St. George City Cemetery with military honors.