George William Shellenberger

George William Shellenberger, a man of remarkable intellect, compassion, and dedication, passed away on May 18, 2025, at Diversicare of Council Grove, Kansas, just one week shy of his 86th birthday. Born on May 26, 1939, in the family home on his grandparents' ranch in Agnes City Township, Lyon County, Kansas, George was the beloved son of Virgil R. Shellenberger Sr. and F. Rose Leffler Shellenberger. His grandparents had purchased the ranch in 1903, and George's parents acquired the original section in 1931, continuing the legacy of stewardship and care for the land.

George’s life was one of perpetual curiosity and a deep commitment to service. He began his education in a one-room schoolhouse, District #87 Agnes City, and was its last graduate before it closed. He attended Council Grove Rural High School, graduating with honors in 1957, and then pursued higher education at Kansas State Teachers College in Emporia, Kansas. There, he earned a Bachelor of Science in physical science and was inducted into Sigma Pi Sigma, the National Physics Honor Society. His dedication to learning continued as he returned to college in subsequent summers to complete both a Masters and a Specialist Degree in Physical Science.

George’s professional life was defined by his love for teaching and his ability to inspire others. He began his teaching career in Kansas at Harveyville High School, then moved on to Pratt High School and Junior College before joining the faculty of College of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Arkansas. For 32 years, he served as a Professor of Natural Science, occasionally teaching math and photography as needed. His contributions extended beyond the classroom, as he also served as Dean of Men for a time.

George was a man of many talents and interests. He mastered watch and clock repair, including intricate grandfather clocks, and became a skilled locksmith, managing locks for several campus buildings. He was an accomplished woodworker and also created custom physics equipment from kits for the college laboratory. George’s ingenuity extended to electronics, where he evaluated products and authored articles for an electronics magazine. He even built a digital piano for the college that replicated the sound of a pipe organ. Outside his professional achievements, he sponsored a student spelunking group to explore local caves, supported his friend’s garden and poultry business, and developed a keen interest in the stock market, which he pursued avidly for the rest of his life.

After retiring in 1995, George returned to his family’s ranch, dedicating himself to land conservation and community service. He tirelessly worked to eradicate weeds, earning a weed permit and volunteering to clear roadside, town, and cemetery areas. He became an active member of the Rock Creek Watershed Board, checking dams and serving as President of Rock Creek Watershed Joint District 84. In 2013, he was honored with the Lyon County District Grassland Conservation Award for his efforts.

George’s retirement was far from idle. He repaired sewing machines, vacuum cleaners, clocks, and other appliances for local second-hand stores, often transporting items between towns to support their operations. He was an avid researcher, frequenting libraries to explore topics of interest, and never lost his passion for learning. His love for rural life was evident in the way he encouraged others to appreciate its beauty and opportunities.

Among George’s many companions was a stray dog he affectionately named "Dog" (later called "Dottie" by his mother). After nursing her back to health from a severe case of heartworms, George provided her with a loving home, and she became his loyal companion for the rest of her life.

George was a humble man who quietly went about doing good, never seeking recognition. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Virgil Jr., an infant sister, nephew Jeff L. Mason, nephew-in-law Mark Morris and his dog he called “Dog.” He is survived by his sister Betty Rose Mason (Don), sister-in-law Harriet Shellenberger, nieces Susan Morris, Denise Wyrick (John), Amy Larson (Jeff), as well as several great-nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews, a great step-niece.

George William Shellenberger’s life was a testament to the values of dedication, kindness, and service. He touched countless lives through his teaching, conservation efforts, and quiet acts of generosity. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his unwavering commitment to bettering the world around him.

“His heart was as vast as the Kansas prairie, quietly sowing acts of kindness and service that enriched the lives of many who remained unaware of his profound impact.”

A Celebration of Life will be held at Sawyer Funeral Home on June 12, 2025 at 2:00pm. A private family Inurnment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. The family request casual dress.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Northern Lyon County Veterans Memorial, Bushong, KS and may be sent in care of Sawyer Funeral Home, PO Box 273, Council Grove, KS 66846.