GEORGE VANDERGRIFT, 1942 - 2014

George Vandergrift was a sixteen year resident of Victor, Montana. He passed away on Friday, September 19, 2014 at St. Patrick Hospital. George was born in Whittier, California on July 19, 1942 to George and Carmen Vandergrift. Raised in Fullerton, California, where he attended College and studied Geology. He worked for State Farm Insurance while attending Western State College of Law. After getting his law degree, he decided to go into business for himself.
In 1974, he started a successful business, Renco Sales located in Southern California. Renco Sales is a manufacturer representative for the plumbing industry. He was still an active part of the business after 40 years, working remotely from Montana. He was well respected and liked by the industry and will be missed.
He loved the mountain life in Montana and enjoyed hiking and being surrounded by nature. He planted many trees on his property that would show the fall colors. He was also an avid gardner with many successful harvests, shared by friends and family. He loved his cats, Amey and Foster and was a supporter of animal welfare. He loved Western and Indian art and enjoyed collecting painting and Indian baskets. He was also a season ticket holder and loved Grizzly football games along with tailgate parties with good friends. He loved his ice cream, especially Chocolate runs through it and Moose Tracks, a small bowl every night.
He received his private pilot's instrument rated license from the FFA and loved anything to do with aviation. He flew his Cessna 182 to Duck Creek, Utah and snowmobiled in to his remote cabin. He also flew his plane to several national parks which he loved to explore with his wife.
He is survived by his wife, Ronie of 26 years; his children Jamie, Matt, Sarah and Teresa; fourteen grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and his sisters, Julie and Janet and many close friends all over the country along with longtime business partners and associates.

Published in Orange County Register on Sept. 24, 2014