February 18, 2015

George Denton Kilgore, 90, of Grove, Okla. passed from this life Feb. 14, 2015, peacefully at home with family by his side. Mr. Kilgore was born April 6, 1924, to Sam and Josie Kilgore in Rogers, Ark.
Mr. Kilgore was an operating engineer in heavy equipment and a member of the UMW & Engineers Union, member of the Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, a 32nd Degree Mason, a Shriner and donated much of his time as a Shriners Hospital Dad in Pittsburg, Kan., transporting many, many children to and from the hospital. A veteran of the United States Army, serving in WWII in Germany, George married Leta on Aug. 16, 1988, in Las Vegas, Nev. George and Leta moved to the Grove area in 2000 and were blessed by each other dearly for over 27 years. George loved to play music and sing, he could play the fiddle, banjo, guitar, and made everyone laugh with his stories, jokes and sense of humor. We will miss him dearly and now celebrate his life of 90 years.
Mr. Kilgore is survived by his loving wife, Leta, of the home; five daughters, Georgia Brooks of Missouri, Kathy Painter of Oklahoma, Dana Goudie and husband Tony of Kansas, Cindy Elston and husband Frank of Missouri, Sharon Brantley and husband David of Georgia; two sons, George Kilgore Jr. and wife Almeta of Arkansas, and Patrick Kilgore and wife Darlene of Missouri; two stepsons, Melvin Staniec of Oklahoma and David Staniec and wife Verna of Kansas; 21 grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
George was preceded in death by his father and mother, Sam and Josie Kilgore; four brothers; three sisters; two sons, Sam Kilgore and Danny Kilgore; and two stepsons, Wayne Staniec and Glenn Staniec.
Graveside Services are scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 1 p.m., at Harmony Grove Cemetery in Dennis, Kan. Graveside military rites will be performed.
Arrangements are entrusted to Grand Lake Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Grove. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.grandlakefuneralhomes.com