George Nechiporenko, 96, Minot, died on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 in a Minot hospital.

George was born November 16, 1911 in Butte, ND, to Nick and Katherine (Saborosky) Nechiporenko. He was raised and educated in Butte and assisted on the family farmstead. He was enlisted in to the US Army on March 20, 1942 and honorably discharged on July 19, 1943. George returned to North Dakota and assisted on the family farmstead in Dogden Township in Butte, where he raised small grains. He moved to Minot 1944 and was employed at Minot Sand and Gravel for 32 years as a heavy equipment operator.

George was a long time member of American Legion at Butte, ND, Eagle's Club and Moose Club.

George was a natural musician who played many instruments by ear. He played drums with several local bands including the Polka Dots and Dakota Ramblers. He practiced his accordion every day until ill health forced him to quit. He loved to entertain his fellow bus passengers with his harmonica on trips to the casino. George retired in 1976 and in 1977 he met Margaret Hornstein and he started his second life. They traveled throughout the states visiting her family and vacation spots. They also loved to dance and play bingo.

His loving family includes : Children: Shirley Griffitt, Minot, Linda (Gary) Hovde, Minot, and Darlene (Joseph) Hurtovenko, Minot; Five Grandchildren: Terry (Kathy) Hovde, Quinn Hurtovenko, Shannon (Chris) Jensen, Danya Potts, and Roxanne Jacobson; 7 Great Grandchildren; very special Friend and Companion: Margaret Hornstein, Minot; Brother: Edward Nichols, Lisbon, ND; Sister: Agnes Palmer, Richmond, CA; Sister-in-law: Mabel Nechiporenko and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

George was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Helen, and brothers, John, Sam, Mike, Russell, and James.

Funeral service: Monday, March 17, 2008, at 11:00 a.m., in the Moose Lodge, Minot.
Interment: Butte Cemetery, Butte, ND; later in the spring
Visitation: Sunday, from noon until 5:00 p.m., in the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.