George E. Wardeberg

George E. Wardeberg passed away peacefully in his home in Naples, Florida, on December 23, 2021, with his loving wife by his side.  He was born on August 27, 1935, to George A. and Antonia Wardeberg in Barnesville, MN. George graduated from Barnesville High School and went on to receive a degree in Industrial Management from Michigan State University.

During his 32 year career at Whirlpool Corporation, he worked his way from an entry-level position to Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer. Afterward, he became Chief Executive Officer of Wicor, Inc., one of the nation’s most successful diversified utilities.  He served as an active Board member for several other businesses, including M&I Bank, Twin Disc, Wisconsin Energy Corporation, and Benz Oil. He was instrumental in the merging of Wicor and Wisconsin Energy Corporation.  He served on volunteer boards for many charities giving back to his beloved adopted city of Milwaukee, WI, including Competitive Wisconsin, Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, Milwaukee Redevelopment Corporation, The Greater Milwaukee Committee, The United Way of Greater Milwaukee, Milwaukee School of Engineering, and Alverno College. Church service was also a big part of his life, and he served on various volunteer Church Boards throughout the cities he has called home.

You were most likely to find George playing golf, fishing, cheering on his kids or grandkids at their school or sporting events, or watching Spartan and Packer football.  He will be remembered for his faith, love of family, and business acumen.

George is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Deanna, three sons - Jeff (Beth), Greg (Michele), and David (Caroline), along with eight grandchildren - Matthew, Nicole, Bryan, Abby, Michael, Grace, Megan, and Jenny. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Doris (Elmer).

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 6, 2022, at 10:30AM at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 777 Mooring Line Drive, Naples, FL 34102. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Avow Hospice, Emmanuel Lutheran Church (designated to Emmanuel Academies), Fox Point Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, and Neighborhood Health Clinic. Arrangements made by Fuller Funeral Home.