Joseph Eugene George

Joseph Eugene George, lovingly known as "Daddy Bug," passed away on December 15, 2024, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 63. Born April 12, 1961, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, to Joseph A. George and Mary Elizabeth Isaac. Joe's larger-than-life personality and unyielding spirit left an unforgettable mark on all who knew him.

The oldest of four, Joe proudly embraced his role as the family instigator, forever picking on his sisters and taking charge of mischief. A lifelong outdoorsman, Joe was born with a rifle in one hand and a fishing pole in the other. From hunting trips and bow-and-arrow adventures to camping under the stars, he lived for the wild. Raccoons, snakes, and other critters often turned up as unexpected stowaways in his pockets-Joe's pets were as unconventional as he was.

Joe grew up in Wisconsin, where he first worked as a mechanic before joining his dad in the oil fields after the family moved to Oklahoma. Later, he became a talented welder who took pride in his craft. A natural handyman, Joe could fix anything and everything, and his third bedroom workshop was a testament to a lifetime of tinkering. Full of tools, hunting gear, reloading equipment, and memories, that room was his haven.

But Joe's passions extended far beyond work. He loved his family fiercely and took every chance to spend time with them-especially if it meant giving them a hard time. He enjoyed taking the kids hunting, shooting, and to the range-where, of course, they'd have to pick up the brass for him to reload later. A master cheater at Monopoly and board games, Joe wasn't much for rules. He said what he wanted, did what he wanted, and wore a seatbelt as rarely as he tolerated instructions.

Joe adored date nights with Sandy at the casino, where he loved playing his favorite games almost as much as he loved sharing McDonald's or Buc-ee's coffee and cigarettes. Adventurous, outgoing, and endlessly talkative, Joe never met a stranger. He'd strike up conversations that could last hours, leaving those he met feeling like old friends.

Through it all, Joe's love for his family and his dogs remained constant. His beloved Missy, his faithful canine companion, knew she was his favorite-and the feeling was mutual. Holidays were sacred to Joe, filled with family, laughter, and just enough teasing to make everyone smile.

Joe leaves behind his wife of 41 years, Sandy George, whom he married in 1983 in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Together, they shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure.

He is survived by his children: Laura Zigler, Kayla George, and Joseph Kristopher George; grandchildren: Kylie Zigler, Allison Zigler, and MoMo; father, Joseph A. George (Pat); siblings: Jim (Sue) George, Joan George, and Jill Givens; and a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family who loved him dearly.

Joe's legacy is one of adventure, humor, independence, and boundless love. He lived life on his terms, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, inside jokes, and jingles that will echo in the hearts of those who knew him. As we honor his memory, let's remember Joe as he was-a man who lived big, loved deeply, and never let a moment go to waste.