George Frederick Acton was born on February 25, 1942, in Red Bluff, California, to William James Acton and Irene Mae (Snodgrass) Acton. In 1949, George’s family moved to the Kansas City area, where they lived in the Turner School District of Kansas City, Kansas. He attended Junction Elementary School and graduated from Turner High School in 1960. During high school George played both football and basketball. Summers were often spent working alongside his uncles in truck farming.
George proudly served in the National Guard for nearly four years before his unit was called to active duty and stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado. He fulfilled his six-year commitment and received an honorable discharge. George held deep respect for the military and for his country.
George began his career with Southwestern Bell/AT&T in October 1960, where he worked faithfully for 39 1/2 years before retiring in April 2000.
On a dare from his cousin Wanda, George asked Linda Craig, one of Wanda’s classmates, to go on a date on January 1, 1962. They went on that date, and the rest was history. George and Linda were married on June 7, 1964, and shared 62 wonderful years together.
George was an avid sports enthusiast and participated in many sports throughout his life. As a child, his uncle's taught him to fish and hunt pheasants and quail – activities he loved deeply and continued enjoying into his 80’s. He joined a local BASS Club and fished lakes throughout the Midwest. George also played baseball on company teams, bowled on numerous leagues and tournament teams, and while serving in the military, discovered his lifelong passion for golf. He played his final round in the fall of 2025.
He especially enjoyed cheering for KU basketball, K-State football, and the Kansas City Chiefs.
George and Linda were blessed with two children, daughter Jennifer and son Benjamin. George devoted countless hours coaching Jennifer’s softball teams and Benjamin’s baseball teams, while faithfully attending and cheering at many other sporting events throughout their lives. To say he became a “bleacher bum” is an understatement.
One of George’s greatest joys came later in life with the birth of his grandson, Jacob. He was incredibly close to him and treasured the many hours they spent together. George and Linda lovingly cared for Jacob each week until he started school, creating a special bond and countless cherished memories.
After retirement, George stayed active by working part-time at Burning Tree Golf Course. Combining work with his love of golf made it especially enjoyable. George never met a stranger and genuinely loved talking with people. He had a warm sense of humor, a gift for making others feel welcome, and was known for his genuine hugs and kind heart. He loved helping people and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. He also lovingly helped care for his Aunt Maggie, who lived with George and Linda for more than eight years. George also had a remarkable ability to fix just about anything, and family and friends could always count on him when something needed repair.
George enjoyed getting together with his special domino friends, sharing laughter and conversation that he cherished deeply.
George loved the Lord and was a member of the Prairie View Family Church in Olathe, KS.
George is survived by his wife of 62 years, Linda; his daughter, Jennifer and her husband, Chris; his son, Benjamin; and his grandson, Jacob Craig Acton.
George will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his steady presence, generous spirit, quick wit, and the love he shared so freely with his family and friends.
For years George and I have been following and admiring a group named Free Hot Soup Kansas City. This is a grassroots group of local people who provide meals and supplies to people who are food insecure or experiencing homelessness. We are really impressed by the love and dedication this group shows to others. To honor George’s love of this group, please consider a donation in his name to support the ongoing efforts of Free Hot Soup.
Your presence and support mean the most. Thank you for being here.
~Linda Acton
Checks should be made out to Rachelle Burnett, admin with Free Hout Soup, or you can Venmo below. Please mark donations in memo as “In memory of George”. If you would like more information about Free Hot Soup or would like to get involved, please reach out to Rachelle directly at 913-226-1665.
The Venmo QR code is in the photos tab.
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of George F. Acton, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
16
May
32665 Lexington Avenue
De Soto, KS 66018
Memorial Service
16
May
32665 Lexington Avenue
De Soto, KS 66018
