George Franklin Soper

George Franklin Soper, 94, of Walla Walla, Washington, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2025, in his home. Born on December 4, 1930, in Edgemont, South Dakota, George moved with his family to Kennewick in March of 1935. At just four and a half years old, he helped his family begin a new life, breaking sagebrush to start a farm — the beginning of a lifetime defined by hard work, dedication, and determined strength.

George began working on local farms at the age of nine and later graduated from the Kennewick School District. He started working at Safeway at 16, a job he held for 30 years, with a two-year pause to serve in the U.S. Army. George proudly served his country, including an 18-month deployment in Korea, and completed a combined total of eight years between active duty and reserve service.

After returning from military service, George moved to Walla Walla. In 1955, he married Delberta, and together they raised three children: daughter Dianne Thomas of Montana, sons George Soper Jr. and Steven Soper, both of whom preceded him in death.

George left Safeway to pursue his own ventures, opening a meat-cutting business on April 9, 1976. He later expanded into a trophy business, running both successfully until his retirement in 2005. Known for his work ethic, skill, and entrepreneurial spirit, George took pride in building something of his own.

George was a man of many interests and talents. Fondly referring to himself as “Junk Yard George,” he had a passion for collecting electrical equipment, tools, metal scraps, and any odds and ends he could use for his homemade inventions and projects. His curiosity and creativity never waned, and he always had something in the works.

He was also a committed hospice volunteer, offering his time and heart to others in need. A fixture in the community, George enjoyed attending local sporting events and especially loved watching his son play. He was known as a man of principle who prided himself on being honest and keeping his word.

In 1989, George met Dean Bergstrom. Over time, Dean became a close and trusted friend, and eventually, George welcomed him into his heart as a surrogate son. Dean remained George’s right-hand man and faithful companion for many years, standing by his side through life’s later chapters and until the day of his passing.

George was also deeply comforted in his final years by his beloved dog, Amber — his “four-legged human.” A rescue from the Pendleton Humane Society, Amber never left George’s side. In his final moments, she gently climbed into his lap, offering him peace and love as he passed, and stayed beside him until the very end.

George will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering work ethic, and the loyalty he gave to those he held dear. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he passed on, and the love and respect he earned over a long, full life.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at Mountain View Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in George’s honor to The Walla Walla Senior Center or a charity of choice through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.