George A. Wheeldon, an esteemed educator, geologist, and adventurer, passed away on October 20, 2023, in Shingle Springs, CA, at the age of 89, after a lengthy illness. George’s life was marked by a remarkable journey of passion, knowledge, and boundless curiosity.
Early Beginnings
Born and raised in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, George’s early years were a prelude to his lifelong quest for knowledge and adventure. He moved to Salinas, CA, with his parents when his father, a World War II veteran, was stationed at Fort Ord. His high school days were filled with a love for playing football and his musical talents on the French horn with the Monterey Symphony.
A Scholar and Athlete
George’s talents led to an offer of a music scholarship to the University of the Pacific. However, it was at Hartnell Junior College in Salinas that he discovered his true calling. A geology class at Hartnell became the turning point in his life. George went on to graduate from San Jose State with a degree in Geology, Zoology, and Chemistry/Physics, but it was geology that stole his heart.
A Life of Teaching and Exploration
In 1960, George embarked on his teaching career at El Dorado High School, bringing his young family to El Dorado County. He taught biology and coached multiple sports teams, sharing his knowledge and passion with generations of students. His love for snow skiing led him to coach the ski team, and his enthusiasm for geology spurred him to start a geology club.
George’s dedication to education took him beyond the classroom. He pursued a master’s degree in Geology at the University of South Dakota with a National Science Foundation fellowship. Returning to Placerville in 1965, he played a pivotal role in bringing geology classes to American River College (now Folsom Lake), igniting a passion for the subject in many. His belief in the importance of field trips in geology education led to legendary adventures with groups of students and community members.
A Multifaceted Career
George’s interests weren’t confined to teaching. In 1970, he established a consulting business focused on landslide mapping, mining geology, mineral evaluations, and percolation studies. It was in 1980 that he retired from full-time teaching to dedicate himself to consulting.
In 2001, George expanded his horizons by serving on the El Dorado Irrigation District Board of Directors for 12 years. He became involved with Jeep Jamboree USA, sharing his geological expertise with fellow adventurers during backcountry expeditions. His travels extended to numerous countries, and he even marked his 80th birthday with a thrilling skydiving experience.
A Man of Many Passions
A lifelong Democrat, George relished lively political debates. He was a devoted San Francisco 49ers fan and had a palate for gourmet food and fine red wines. His appetite for knowledge was insatiable, often juggling multiple books at once. His indomitable spirit and zest for life will be remembered by the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable career.
A Legacy of Family
George leaves behind a loving family, including his dedicated wife, Mary Jane, and a large family that includes a daughter, sons, step-children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his step-son Sheldon Davis and his parents, William and Madeleine Wheeldon.
George’s life will be celebrated on Thursday, November 16, at 1:00 p.m., at Green Valley Community Church in Placerville, CA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the El Dorado County Mineral & Gem Society, c/o Fred Ott, P.O. Box 950, Placerville, CA 95667.
George A. Wheeldon was a true renaissance man—a scholar, athlete, teacher, geologist, adventurer, and beloved family man. His impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
