The lakes lost one of their greatest fisherman this past week. George F. Hathaway, of Fountain, Michigan (formerly of Bloomingdale, Allegan and Holland, Michigan) - passed away on May 20th, 2018 with his wife, daughter and other loved ones by his side. He was 81 years young. Born to George E. and Ella Marie Hathaway on was born on September 18th, 1936.

George was an avid hunter, fisherman and outdoors-man. Formerly a professional fisherman and Captain of the "Lucky Lady" Charter Fishing Team out of both, South Haven and Manistee, Michigan. He loved riffle and bow hunting for Michigan white-tail deer, and taking trips with his friends to hunt larger game. If he wasn't fishing or hunting, he was wishing he were.

Not one to sit for too long, he retired in 1988 from Rockwell International after 27 years of service AND again from Donnelly Corporation after 7 years of service. He continued to freelance his Captain-ing by teaching the young guys where and how to catch fish, and which lure to use both on Lake Michigan and the smaller inland lakes.

Surviving are his wife of 28 years, Barbara (Lauri); sons George N. Hathaway and Jay Hathaway; daughter, Anna R. Lauri; brothers Ralph and Joe Hathaway and their wives Hazel and Patsy; along with brother, Butch Sherwood. Best friend; Tom Rock and his wife Mary.

He is preceded in death by his first love and wife, Janet (Hale) Hathaway; son, Scott; sister, Mary Billings, and brother, David Benson; father, George Hathaway; Mother, Ella; best friend and fishing buddy, Emil Dean.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to The Shade Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention of skin cancer and skin cancer related deaths through sun safety education, promotion of skin cancer screenings and the implementation of SHADE in public spaces.

A short memorial service will be held at 4:30pm Friday, June 1st, 2018 at the Sherman Township Hall in Fountain, Michigan. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow the service and will commence with a Scotch/Whiskey toast, fish dinner, shared memories and laughter.

Graveside service will be held at Spring Grove Cemetery in Bloomingdale, Michigan at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Ludington.