George Raymond Sitorius ,83, passed away on June 15, 2026, at his home at Gothenburg.
It is with deep respect, love, and gratitude that we announce the passing of George Raymond Sitorius, a devoted husband, proud father, honorable Vietnam veteran, lifelong horseman, and steadfast rancher.
George was born in Gothenburg on Oct. 8, 1942, to Raymond H. and Oi M. Sitorius. He lived a life defined by courage, hard work, and an unwavering love for the land. George graduated from Gothenburg High School in 1961 and attended the University of Nebraska Lincoln. He then bravely served his country during the Vietnam War, Army 1st Infantry Division 1964-1966, answering the call of duty with honor and sacrifice. Upon returning home, he dedicated himself to the life he loved most - raising a family, working the ranch, caring for his horses, and embracing the values of the Central Plains.
George was a true cowboy in every sense of the word. He found peace beneath wide-open skies, strength in honest labor, and joy in the company of family and friends. Through his example, he taught his four children the importance of perseverance, integrity, and the freedom to follow their own paths.
Above all, George cherished his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 61 years, Marcia; four children, Traci Hartley (Mark), Ray Sitorius (Suzette), Jennifer Zuazua (Ruben), and Jon Sitorius (Staci); 11 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, each of whom carries forward a piece of his enduring legacy.
George is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond H and Oi Sitorius; brothers-in-law, Hugh Osmera and Dwane Haberman; grandchildren, Carly Sue Sitorius and Jon Raymond Sitorius.
George will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous heart, and the cowboy spirit that never left him. Though he has ridden beyond the horizon, his memory will live on in the land he loved, the family he raised, and the countless lives he touched.
As the day fades into evening and the wind drifts softly across the range, we picture George mounting his horse one final time, tipping his hat, and riding toward God’s eternal horizon - free, strong, and at peace.
George will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. Until we meet again, ride on, Cowboy.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, June 18, at 10:30 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Gothenburg, with Pastor Grace Gichuru officiating. Burial will follow at Fort McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Fisher House, St. Jude, Ronald McDonald House.
Online condolences can be made at www.blasestrauser.com. Funeral arrangements were trusted to Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel & Monuments, 620 10th Street Gothenburg, NE 69138, (308) 537-2313.