It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of George Sharko on March 25, 2025, at the age of 80.

George was born in Sexsmith, AB, on October 12, 1944, to Philip and Meri Sharko. He had a love of farming, hunting and spent his life providing for his family.

George quit school at the age of 15 and went to work at Oilund Lumber Camp, which ignited his love for the woods. He worked for Canfor in bush camps in the winter and for Standard General on a road construction crew in the summer. Eventually George married the love of his life, Barbara, in May of 1969. Together they had two children, Ronald and Tracy. In 1977, they took the plunge and purchased their first acreage. George also bought his first Big Truck, a 1977 GMC General, one of only two for sale in this area. He began subcontracting for Cutbank Trucking that year. Over the years he subcontracted for every major logging company in the Peace Country including: Triple G, the Isley Brother’s, Timberline Haulers, and Murton.

In the late 80’s, George and Barb purchased a farm in Grovedale, AB. Together they managed farming grain and raising cattle, all while George hauled logs to Weyerhaeuser. His reputation in the bush was unparalleled. They called him “Gentleman George,” as he was always the first to lend a helping hand to his peers. Whether they were broken down on the side of the road or if a fellow driver needed help tying down a load. He hauled the first load into the Weyerhaeuser mill, and as far as we know, hauled to Weyerhaeuser longer than any other logger in the Grande Prairie area. They used to joke with him over the radio, saying “George, we know you hauled the first load in here, but that doesn’t mean you need to haul the last, too.” He finished his career at Reco Construction working for Jim Wald, retiring at 76 years old.

When George wasn’t hauling logs or working on the farm he would spend his time with his wife and children going on hunting, camping and fishing trips. He and Barb also took a long-awaited trip to the states; touring old towns and museums, learning the history of how the west was won, and taking in the sights. After the tragic passing of George and Barb’s Daughter, Tracy, they adopted her son, David, and raised him as their own. George carried on the family tradition of hunting with David, instilling his knowledge, love of nature and animals.

After his retirement, George spent his time at home with Barbara watching all his favorite westerns and making memories with her and his son. David would drag him out hunting every year, and when they weren’t hunting, they would be target practicing or cleaning their rifles. If the weather were less than favorable, David and George would chat about big trucks over a rum or a vodka and a cigar. David is a Heavy Duty Mechanic, and George would always have questions about the new trucks with “all this technology.” He was incredibly proud of his son.

George is survived by his loving Wife Barbara, who took spectacular care of him in his final days, and his two sons David and Ronald. He made an exceptional impression on everyone who met him and changed the lives of many people. He will be remembered for his incredible work ethic, his constant support for his family, and the unwavering love in his heart. His memory will live on through his wife and sons.

We want to extend our deepest thanks to the Paramedics, ER Nurses and Doctors, and Palliative Care at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital for all their help and support, as well as Roxanne Hemmingway from Respiratory Homecare Solutions for her incredible kindness and care.

There will be no formal services held for George, but anyone who knew him is encouraged to send their condolences to Barbara Sharko on Facebook.