Sr. Morse, George L.

George Lincoln Morse Sr. of Union Springs, formerly of Ithaca, passed away on Monday, May 12, 2014 at Cayuga Medical Center surrounded by his loving family.

George was born in Ithaca on August 4, 1926, a son of the late Carl Sibley Morse and Helen Lincoln King. He was a graduate of Ithaca High School and obtained his Bachelor of Science Degree from Cornell University Hotel School in 1950. George was also a Navy Seabee, honorably serving his country as an engineer during World War II.

George had a unique business career, starting out in the hotel business planning conventions. This endeavor took he and his wife, Millie, all over the country. During the 1950’s, George and Millie returned to Ithaca to start a family. Over the years he owned and operated several businesses in Ithaca, including the first Ski-Doo dealership in New York State, and established Morse Collins Lightning Protection in Ithaca, where he worked as a static electric ground engineer.

George’s passion in life was restoring antique boats. His home included “The Barn” where he spent countless hours restoring boats, a talent that was world renowned. His enthusiasm for boating led him to be an advocate of the New York State Barge Canal System, encouraging the state to place docks along canals to allow boaters to dock and visit the many small villages throughout the canal system. Also an avid historian, George helped found the Frontenac Historical Society and Museum in Union Springs. He helped put together several displays for the Museum including “Waterways To The World” exhibit. George was very active with Cornell Cooperative Extension, Ithaca Chamber of Commerce, City Club, Ithaca Yacht Club, and the 1000 Islands Antique Boat Museum. He was also involved in countless other museums and clubs throughout New York and Canada. George had a gift for positive thinking, always teaching and advocating for safety. He helped develop the New York State snowmobile safety course and taught it to hundred of young snowmobile enthusiasts.

George is survived by four children, Mary Fran (Daryl) Besemer of Trumansburg, Carl (Simone) Morse of Newfield, George Lincoln (Beth) Morse Jr. of Trumansburg, and David G. (Susan) Morse of Albany; ten grandchildren, Joseph, George, and Kevin Besemer, Marcus, Hannah, and Paige Morse, Sydney Morse, Jonathan, Caitlin, and Shayna Morse; two great grandchildren, Jayden and Aurora Besemer; his sister, Janet Dean of Lansing; several nieces and nephews; and the Rice family of Manchester, New Hampshire. In addition to his parents, George was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred A. Morse; and a son, John Morse.

The party to celebrate Dad's life will be held at the Ithaca Yacht Club on Sunday, June 22 from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Please dress casually, bring a bathing suit, towel and a favorite George story. Food and beverages will be provided (really good beverages!) Please come and help us celebrate a special man's life!

The family asks those who would like to make a contribution in George’s memory to kindly consider the Frontenac Historical Society and Museum, 8 North Cayuga Street, Union Springs, NY 13160.