George Leslie McAdams

George L. McAdams, 86, died on Saturday, August 30, surrounded by family and friends. He enjoyed life to the fullest and willingly shared his spirit of optimism with all. George was a person of integrity and was loved by many friends. He valued family above all else. George was born on August 23, 1922 in Teague, Texas, to Jesse and Mattie McAdams. He entered the army as a young man and served his country for approximately 25 years. During this time he was twice awarded the Purple Heart subsequent to service on the Omaha Beach, Normandy, and the European Theater. In addition, his awards included the Bronze Star Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Presidential Unit Emblem, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, American Campaign Medal, World War ll Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, United Nations Service Medal, Honorable Service WW ll, Belgian Fourragere, and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation Badge. During the time George was in the service, he met the love of his life, Helen Hoilien. They married on George’s return from World War II and had three children-Mary Joette, Kathryn Lee, and Michael Owen. They enjoyed 54 wonderful years together until Helen’s death in 2002. After Helen’s death, George subsequently shared three years of wedded life with Amy Aaronson. George’s army career included assignments to Germany, Greenland, France, England, Ireland, Washington, Kansas, Hawaii, Alaska, Arkansas, Michigan, and two assignments to Korea. He also served as adviser for the National Guard during many of these years, with retirement from the army in 1966. George was a devout Lutheran and considered his walk on this earth to be a spiritual gift. He was a charter member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and served his church in many capacities. He was also a charter member of New Hope Lutheran Church and keenly supported its mission. George was a Mason, member of the VFW, and the American Legion of Foreign Wars. George maintained lasting friendships with colleagues and those who served with him in the military. He loved to garden and shared the fruits of his labor with many. George was an avid Domino player and his love of winning was only exceeded by his competitive spirit. George is preceded in death by his parents, son in law, William Phillips; a younger sister, Juanita Mills; Helen Mc Adams, Amy McAdams, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Survivors include his children: Mary J. Swendiman (Mark) of El Paso,TX, Kathryn L. Sridaromont (Dr. Somkid) of Lubbock, TX, and Michael O. McAdams of Albuquerque, NM; Grandchildren: Tanya M. Wells (David) of London, UK, Brian K. Phillips (Jessica) of El Paso, TX, and Melissa L. Sridaromont of Dallas, TX; Great-grandchildren: Alexis C. Phillips, Megan H. Phillips, and Marin H.L. Wells, older sister, Edith L. Taylor of Wortham, TX, nieces, nephews, and a host of friends. Visitation from 5:00 to 9:00 pm and Funeral Service at 7:00 pm on Monday, September 1, 2008 at Sunset Funeral Home-Northeast. Graveside Service at 10:00 am, September 2, 2008 at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. Interment will follow at Fort Bliss National Cemetery with full military honors. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral homes-Northeast. Please visit on-line register book at www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net