George Harmon Motz Sr.

George Harmon Motz Sr., a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026, at the age of 84 in Carmichael, CA after a long, courageously fought battle with cancer. He would always tell his doctor, "I just want to make it to 90," and anyone who asked how he was doing already knew the answer: "I’m fine as frog hair." (And if you knew George, you knew he meant it—even when he probably shouldn’t have.)

He was born on August 7, 1941, in Akron, Ohio, where his life began and his values of hard work, resilience, and kindness were first shaped. George proudly served his country in the United States Army from September 1958 to February 1979. As a Vietnam veteran, he demonstrated courage, commitment, and honor throughout his years of service. During his early years in Vietnam, he served as a driver to a high-ranking Commandant, a role that required him to transport senior military VIPs and their families. He received multiple letters of commendation from these officials for his conscientious attention to detail, courtesy, and willingness to adapt to ever-changing situations. During his two tours in Vietnam, he also served as Truckmaster of the 69th Transportation Company, a role that carried significant responsibility and leadership. Following his time in Vietnam, he was stationed in Mannheim, Germany; and later at Fort Ord, CA where he retired after 30 years of service with the rank of Master Sergeant. He was a recipient of multiple military decorations, including the Bronze Star, multiple Meritorious Service Medals, and two Purple Hearts.

After retiring from the military, George began his civilian career as a fleet maintenance manager with CF Trucking in Sacramento. He later transferred to Conway Western Express in Southern CA where he continued his work and ultimately retired after 30 years in the trucking industry. Throughout his career, he was respected for his strong work ethic, leadership, and reliability.

George was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Theresa, and his son, Bradley Motz. He is survived by his brother, Michael (Sue) Warren of Arizona; his sister, Linda Suggs of North Carolina; his children, Irene Ann Jewett; Robin Rae Kelly (Robert), Denise Lillian; George (Jay) Motz Jr. (Tanya); and David Motz (Tiffany); as well as eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

In his personal life, George found joy in the simple moments. He especially loved attending Hot August Nights each year in Reno, where he proudly took his 1974 Chevy Nova, combining his love of classic cars with time spent among friends and family. He loved working on his hot rod and took great pride in it—especially if it ran just a little bit better than anyone else’s.

Over their years together, George and Terri enjoyed traveling in their motorhome to visit family and friends (of which they had many) creating lasting memories along the way. They also enjoyed cruises, trips to Europe; as well as the occasional trip to any small casino near their destination.

George had a natural talent for fixing things and rarely let anything go to waste. To him, a broken appliance wasn’t junk—it was just "future parts." He enjoyed repairing watches, broken flashlights, clocks, coffee pots, etc. often keeping and searching out old appliances to use for parts. He also loved working in his yard at each of his homes, planting roses and flowers and taking pride in keeping everything well cared for.

A graveside service will be held on March 19th at 1:00 p.m. at Fair Oaks Cemetery, with a reception to follow at the home of Dave and Tiffany Motz.

George Harmon Motz Sr. will be deeply missed and loved by all that knew him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of George Harmon Motz Sr., please visit our floral store.