George Arthur Shones

George Shones, "91 and a half", man of few words but deep conviction, hardworking, kind, generous, patent and loving, passed away early Monday morning, from cardiac complications. George is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Maryann Shones, and their seven children, Bernie Shones, Bob Shones, Marylou Seibel, Linda Douglas, Tom Shones, Ed Shones, and Patty Ott. His 22 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. George, born on January 23rd of 1927 was the honest, caring, honorable son of the late Arthur and Elizabeth Shones of Independence Oregon. He was the second born of 6 kids. In his early years, he was raised on the farm in Millville, Minnesota where his father was born.George and Maryann's love for each other began in Millville at one of the town movie showings. They would sit there and have ice cream together. George and Maryann were married in the winter of 1951. Moved to Independence December of 1955, bought their gas station in 1961 and ten years later bought the farm. George was known for owning the full service "Shones Gas for Less" for over 30 years in Independence Oregon. He spent many hours helping people change and fix tires, changing oil, and window washing. In many cases doing the work for free to help a stranger out. He was one of the most hardworking and generous men you could ever meet. On top of owning his own business, he ran his family farm, The Broken Horn Ranch. Growing his own crop, bailing hay, and taking care of livestock. His work ethic was relentless both at work and at home.George loved many. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, as well as being a father figure to many. He enjoyed finding things for all of them to do together like building tire swings, bottle feeding bummer lambs, teaching them how to fish and hunt, taking them on adventures, and enjoying the great outdoors. Some of his hobbies include going mushroom picking, gardening, and panning for gold. Whether it was helping someone at the gas station or fixing things around the house he taught many people valuable skills and life lessons. He taught them about endless love, commitment, kindness, and about being self-sufficient. He believed in leading by example and because of this many looked up to him. He lived his dream but always dreamed of winning the big one.George was a godly man, you could find him every week with his wife Maryann at St. Patrick’s Church in Independence. He believed in wisdom through the Holy Spirit and that through God anything is possible. In lieu of donations and flowers please take your family and friends fishing in the memory of George (dad).Farnstrom Mortuary is caring for the family.
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