George Eugene Hill

George Eugene Hill, 94, of San Diego, Calif., formerly of Superior, passed away after a brief illness on Thursday, February 14, 2019, with his family by his side. He was born on March 24, 1924, in Maple, WI, to Charles and Selma (Soyring) Hill.

He graduated 8th grade from Maple Corner School, then worked on his family’s farm for several years. In his early 20’s, he spent two seasons working as an oiler on the Great Lakes ships before moving to Waukegan, IL in 1948 to work at US Steel. He worked at US Steel as a Stranding Operator for 32 years before retiring in 1980.

George married Betty Lebeck March 5, 1974, in Waukegan, IL and they celebrated 40 years of marriage before her passing in 2014. During his retirement, he embraced the role of “Mr. Mom” and took care of his home and family while his wife continued to work.

George was an avid reader and especially liked Westerns and Reader’s Digest. He also enjoyed playing Scrabble and doing crossword puzzles.

In 2015, he moved to San Diego to be closer to his daughter and her family. He was proud that he took his first plane ride at the age of 90 when he flew to San Diego.

George remained the embodiment of Finnish Sisu by fighting until the end with his classic determination and stubbornness.

George is survived by one daughter, Amy (Keith Johnson) Hill-Johnson, and one grandson, Neil Johnson, both of San Diego, Calif., and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, George was preceded in death by his parents, his three brothers: Charles Hill, Martin Hill, and Swante Hill; and his three sisters, Violet Koukari, Flora Colby, and Ellen Gronroos.

Services will be held in the spring with burial in Greenwood Cemetery.

George's grandson, Neil Johnson will be recognized as an honorary pallbearer.

The Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home, 1209 E. 5 ^th Street, Superior is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a condolence or sign the guest book, please visit our website at www.lenroot-maetzold.com .