George McCormick Obituary

George McCormick
July 9, 1930 - July 24, 2024
George (Sam) Raymond McCormick, 94, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on July 24, 2024, leaving behind a legacy marked by admiration and respect. Sam was born on July 9, 1930 in Culbertson, MT and finished high school in Havre, MT where he was a star football and basketball player for the Blue Ponies.
Sam went to college at Montana State College (MSU) on a football scholarship and was a defensive back and quarterback for the Bobcats. He married his high school sweetheart Rosalie Fortin while attending college graduating in 1953. Rosalie and Sam crisscrossed the state where Sam coached football and taught math in Belt, MT, Harlowton, MT and then as head football coach for Western Montana State College (now University of Montana Western) for six years. Sam left teaching and coaching for a few years venturing into the insurance business in Tucson and Phoenix Arizona. He returned to his passion in California coaching and teaching at St. Helena High in St. Helena , CA and Piner High School in Santa Rosa, CA. During their time in California, Sam and Rosalie, with family in tow, returned every summer to Montana to help run the Sacajawea Inn in Three Forks which was owned by Sam's mother and uncle and moved back permanently in 1998.

Sam was a revered coach and teacher, making a lasting impact and enduring bonds with his players and students, demonstrating his commitment to their development both on and off the field. Sam was inducted in the Western Montana Athletic Hall of Fame in 1988 for his outstanding coaching achievements at Western. Sam was committed to continued learning and earned master's degrees in physical education at MSU and later attended Stanford University for a specialized two-year program for math teachers. Sam remained deeply connected to his alma mater throughout his life, actively participating in the MSU alumni association. Sam also was a member of the American Legion Post 14 in Bozeman, Montana.

Sam was known for his gregarious manner and ability to make positive connections with people. Sam was also a serious thinker balanced by a curious and contemplative nature. He found solace in a good walk and appreciated the simple joy of an afternoon beer at his favorite watering hole.

He is survived by his beloved wife Rosalie, their children Michael (Kitty), Mark (Jeanette - D), Matthew (Shirley), and Maria, grandchildren Melissa, Max, Mara, Marrisa, Meade, Sean, Sarah, Emily and Amanda and great grandchildren Sawyer, Sloane, Theodore, Josephine, Georgie, and Maggie. He is survived by his brother William "Corky" McCormick and preceded in death by brothers Robert, Roland, Ralph, Rodger and sister Peggy. He is also preceded in death by parents Pauline Makoff and Willard McCormick, and stepfather Max Makoff.

Sam will be remembered with fondness for his contributions to athletics and education, as well as for his genuine warmth and engaging personality. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, and the memories shared by his family, friends, former players, and students. Arrangements are in the care of K&L Mortuary in Three Forks, MT. Grave side services will be held at 11 a.m., September 8, 2024 at Fairview cemetery in Three Forks and followed by a reception at the Sacajawea Bar with food and drink being provided.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Bobcat Club Annual Scholarship Fund, PO Box 173380, Bozeman, MT 59717 or by visiting msubobcatclub.com.