George W. Fultz, age 84, a lifelong resident of LaPorte, peacefully left this world to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, June 11, 2026.
Born on June 16, 1941, in LaPorte, Indiana, George was the son of the late George and Elinor (Strauch) Fultz. He graduated from Rolling Prairie High School with the Class of 1960, where he enjoyed playing basketball and running track. Following graduation, George began a distinguished career as a Heavy Equipment Operator with Bethlehem in Burns Harbor. A proud member of the Union Local 150 Operating Engineers for more than 65 years, he dedicated 40 years of service before retiring on December 29, 2000.
George's life was defined by his unwavering devotion to his faith, family, and community. In 1971, he became a faithful member of First Christian Church of Rolling Prairie, where he worshipped and served for over five decades. George was involved as a Sunday School Teacher. Known for his generous spirit, George was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He never made excuses and never hesitated to help others, whether through his time, talents, or simple acts of kindness. Many church members fondly remember receiving fresh eggs from George, a small gesture that reflected his caring heart.
One of the greatest blessings of George's life was meeting the love of his life, Shelby Perschke. Introduced by friends, it was truly love at first sight. George asked Shelby out during basketball sectionals, beginning a beautiful love story that led to their marriage on October 12, 1963. Together, they shared nearly 63 wonderful years filled with laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion.
George cherished every moment spent with his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy. George could always be counted on to support his grandchildren through 4-H competitions, dance recitals, theater performances, livestock shows, baseball games, and many more. his happiest days were spent farming alongside his grandsons, sharing stories, wisdom, and a strong work ethic. One of George’s last memories made on the farm was bailing hay with his grandson Jared.
An avid outdoorsman and lifelong farmer at heart, George had a deep appreciation for the land. He operated a sawmill, loved his family chickens, and had a lifelong fascination with tractors. As a proud member of the Sunday Farmers Tractor Club, he enjoyed preserving agricultural traditions and sharing his passion with others. He was also a steadfast supporter of the local 4-H community. George never showed hesitation to help Shelby as she lead the 4-H throughout the years, and he often build desks, ramps, boxes, you name it without asking. Many folks have come to Shelby asking “Think I could borrow George for the day?” knowing that his never-met-a-stranger kindness would shine.
George was a man who never met a stranger. Whether playing Euchre, Hand & Foot, or Seven Diamonds, enjoying a favorite Fannie May candy, Mr. Goodbar, Klondike Bar, a cold Coke, or an Orange Gatorade, he found joy in life's simple pleasures and in the company of those he loved. He and Shelby enjoyed traveling together throughout the western United States, cruising through Alaska, and taking a memorable Caribbean cruise. A deeply patriotic man, George loved his country and carried a profound respect for the freedoms he cherished.
Left to treasure his memory are his beloved wife, Shelby Fultz; daughters, Angie (Jody) Rose and Amy Kraus; grandchildren, Amanda (Lou Young) Wallace, Jay (Rachel) Rose, Jared Rose, Austyn (Reese) McKee, and Allie (Jacob Malik) Kraus; great-grandchildren, Jadyn (Colten), Dontrail, Joziah, Jacey, and Hadley; and his great-great-grandson, Jettson, who entered the world on the very day George entered eternal life. He is also survived by his sister, Jill (Tom) McLoughlin; sister-in-law, Carrie Fultz; and several cherished nieces and nephews.
George was preceded in death by his parents, George and Elinor Fultz; his sisters, Cheryl Kay (Don) Lorenger and Anne Fultz; his brother, Robert Fultz; dear nephew Benjamin and great-nephew Wacy DeCora.
Family and friends may gather at Haverstock Funeral Home, 602 Maple Street, LaPorte, on Monday, June 15, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Service celebrating George's life will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor John Marron officiating. George will be laid to rest at Pine Lake Cemetery.
George's life was a testament to faith, hard work, generosity, and love. He leaves behind a legacy rooted in kindness, integrity, and devotion to family. Though his earthly work is complete, the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the countless lives he touched will continue to bear fruit for generations to come.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in George’s name and treasured memory may be made to First Christian Church of Rolling Prairie (113 W Michigan Street, Rolling Prairie, 46371).
