George W. Appleton, a long-time resident of Clay Center, Kansas, passed away on December 13, 2024, at the age of 99. He was born on March 7, 1925, on a farm in Maple Hill Township, Kansas, the youngest child of Roy and Margaret “Ruth” Appleton.
George grew up in Manhattan, Kansas, with his siblings Virginia Ruth (Appleton) Cowan, Wayne Leroy Appleton, and Arthur Allen Appleton. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
During World War II, George enlisted in the Navy Submarine Service on June 26, 1943, becoming a Motor Machinist’s Mate. He served on the USS SHARK, USS SHAD, and the USS GREENFISH, with deployments ranging from Honolulu to the Marshall Islands.
While stationed in Maine, George married his high school sweetheart, Betty Adams, on March 1, 1946. After his honorable discharge, he pursued his passion for watchmaking, graduating from the Kansas City School of Watchmaking in March 1948.
That same year, George began his career at Buchmann’s Jewelry Store in Clay Center, where he remained until its closure in 1984. He then opened his own business, George’s Jewelry, on Court Street.
George was an active and dedicated member of the Clay Center community for 76 years. He served on numerous civic organizations, including the Shriners, Masons (for over 30 years), and Eastern Star. He was also a long-standing member of the Elks, serving as treasurer for several years. His commitment to community service extended to the Clay County Area Agency on Aging Board and the Little St. Andrews Golf Tournament, where he served as chairman in 1978.
For many years, George held the position of Task Force Treasurer, resigning at the age of 90. He continued to serve as Chairman of the Transportation Committee for several years after. In recognition of his contributions to the community, George was named Clay Center Grand Marshal in 2014.
George was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, and his siblings. He is survived by his two sons, Roy S. Appleton (and wife Jan L. Appleton) and William “Bill” Appleton (and partner Troy W. Weakley).
George W. Appleton will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, and his commitment to his community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Graveside services with Military Honors will be held in the spring of 2025. The Anderes-Pfeifley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of George Appleton, please visit our flower store.
