In Memory: George Richard Fields

George Richard Fields
May 13, 1923 - May 16, 2023

George Richard Fields passed away peacefully at his home in Ripon on May 16, 2023, three days after his 100th birthday. George was born on May 13, 1923 in Stockton, California to parents Charles and Georgia Fields.

George was a lifelong resident of Ripon and Escalon. After graduating from Ripon High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as a Staff Sergeant during World War II. After being discharged, he returned home and began farming. He first raised turkeys and later moved into almond and peach farming. George loved to farm, enjoyed gardening, and especially enjoyed eating straight from his garden.

George was deeply committed to the Lions Club. He served as a District Governor of 4-A1 Lions in the Central Valley and was a co-founder of the North and South All Star High School Football League, which was played at the University of the Pacific stadium in Stockton. He also served on the board for several years. After retiring, George enjoyed spending time in Tahoe at his cabin with family and friends. He will be remembered for his tireless work ethic, his love for animals, and his unfailing loyalty to his family.

George is survived by his daughter, Joan Sparks (Terry); his grandchildren Yvette Fields, Milette Fields, Errica Bowman (Emmett), Lance Fields (Sarah), Cameron Sparks (Lindsay), Brooke Stark (Kevin), Matthew Fields (Kendra), and Michael Fields (Haley); along with 14 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Winnifred Fields, and his sons, Lyman Fields and Charles Fields.

Deegan Ripon Memorial Chapel was honored to serve the Fields family. A graveside service was scheduled for Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Burwood Cemetery in Escalon.

Donations in George's memory may be made to Community Hospice, Noble Hospice, or the Ripon Lions Club.