George Obenauer, Jr., 81, Bismarck, went to heaven on February 14, 2026 at Missouri Slope Lutheran Care Center. Cremation has taken place. To honor George’s life, a memorial at Missouri Slope and private family service will be held at a later date.

George was born July 8, 1944 to George and Martha (Klein) Obenauer in Ashley, North Dakota.

He was raised and educated in Ashley. His lifelong profession was carpentry. He was employed with various contractors and construction companies before becoming a self-employed carpenter. George loved carpentry and took great pride in his work.

On April 21, 1973, George married Mavis K. Gehring in Aberdeen, South Dakota. They made their home in Aberdeen for five years before moving to Ashley for 18 years. They later settled in Bismarck.

George semi-retired from his carpentry business in 2007. He built and remodeled many homes, along with various projects along with his wife, Mavis, always at his side. They became Arizona “snow birds” for 13 years. They enjoyed sight-seeing, walking, biking, golfing and the outdoors. In the winter months, they enjoyed walking at the malls and visiting with people, especially young children. They shared many adventures together, including travelling to South Dakota, Ohio, California and Nevada. Many of their travels took them to visit family, cheering on the Minnesota Vikings, exploring Disneyland, Disney World, and San Francisco. George enjoyed German food, especially kuchen that his mother and mother-in-law made. He also enjoyed chocolate pie and snickers. George liked to watch professional football and high school basketball and playing cards. Even as a young boy, George lived his life with the mindset, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way!”

He will be remembered for his devotion to his wife, love of family, and a kind heart that had a special place for humor. He enjoyed being an uncle. He loved spending time with his nieces and nephews, proudly attending many of their sports events.

George is survived by his wife, Mavis; sisters, Donna Watkins, Sioux Falls, SD, Darlene Hayes, Aberdeen, SD, and Marcella Schnabel, Detroit Lakes, MN; his special nieces, nephews, and their families; and many long-time friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Phyllis Bader; and brothers-in-law, Ronald Watkins, Sr., and Richard Hayes.

The family extends their gratitude to Missouri Slope for the wonderful care and love they gave George. The staff became a special family and home for him.

What you built was never just

Of timber, nail, or stone.

You built a life of steadfast love,

A place he called his home.

And though today feels empty,

And grief is deep and wide,

May you find comfort in this truth:

You never left his side.

He was wrapped in love until the end,

In the place he’d always known—

The heart that walked with him for years,

And never let him go.