George Michaels

George Michaels was born on February 11, 1938 in Drama, Greece, and passed away peacefully at home in Casper, surrounded by family, on March 11, 2026, at the age of 88.

At seventeen, George immigrated to the United States and settled in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where he was sponsored by his Thea Chrisa. The following year he joined the United States Marine Corps and served his new country with pride. After completing his service, he returned to Sioux Falls and met the love of his life, Shirley Ann Hegdahl. The couple married in Casper, Wyoming, in 1959.

In 1965 George proudly became a United States citizen. That same year, he and Ann founded Michaels Fence & Supply in Casper, later expanding to Sioux Falls. Through hard work, determination, and meticulous craftsmanship, they built a respected business that reflected George’s integrity and commitment.

George loved fishing at Alcova Lake, attending tennis tournaments, visiting Las Vegas to relax and play blackjack, and sharing coffee, conversation, and poker with friends. He and Ann enjoyed traveling, especially to Greece. He had a characteristic way of arriving in the middle of a family or friend’s project, taking over, and completing it his way.

George was preceded in death by his mother, father, brother, and a sister. He is survived by his sister Doukeni; his loving wife Ann; his children Chrisa DeGraeve (Bill), Ana Zook (Troy), and Mike Michaels (Debbie); nine grandchildren, Andreas, Gabriel, Ruby, Eve, Leo, Melissa, Kendra, Chriana, and George; and seven great-grandchildren.

George’s life was defined by courage, hard work, and deep devotion to family. From a young immigrant arriving in America to a proud Marine and successful businessman, he built a life of integrity and purpose. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the community he helped build. As he often said, “it’s been a good life up til now.”