George Bainum
George E. Bainum, 82, of Julesburg, passed away Aug. 9, 2023, at Melissa Memorial Hospital in Holyoke.
George, better known as “Sonny,” was born March 9, 1941, in Denver to George and Mary “Louise” (Radulovich) Bainum Sr. He graduated from Wheat Ridge High School in Colorado and immediately entered the workforce as an employee for Associated Grocers. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1963 and was honorably discharged in 1969.
In the year before his discharge, Sonny married the love of his life, Patricia Marie Carbone. After six years of dating, they exchanged vows in Denver on Oct. 18, 1969. Sonny and Patricia began their lives together in Arvada. They enjoyed bowling, dancing, boating and spending time with family. During their time in Arvada, their first child, Christopher, was born.
They relocated to Bennett in the early 1970s, where Sonny’s parents and sister and her husband lived. Shortly after moving to Bennett, their second child, Rhonda, was born. They spent an enjoyable two decades in Bennett until 1993, when they moved to Byers. In an effort to be near their daughter and her husband and their grandsons, they finally landed in Julesburg in 2010.
Sonny’s life was rich in love and relationships. He was a devoted father, husband and uncle. He cherished the moments with his three grandsons, Josh, Ryan and Matthew. He spent time with these boys in the outdoors, attending swimming lessons and music programs, and rarely missed an athletic event.
A true outdoorsman, Sonny had a deep appreciation and love for nature. As a young man, he enjoyed spending time hunting and fishing with his parents and sisters in the mountains of Colorado. This love of the mountains and fishing carried over with his own children and grandchildren. His affinity for animals was undeniable, especially when it came to his cherished dogs, his miniature horses and his cats. Sonny’s love of kids was also apparent, as he spent time coaching and managing the local youth basketball and baseball leagues in Bennett.
George enjoyed a long career as a produce buyer/specialist. Later in his career, he worked for the USDA, Department of Defense, where he helped supply various military bases and schools with fresh fruits and vegetables. He truly loved his career and the people whom he worked with on a daily basis.
George was known for his kindness and generosity, along with his forthrightness. Those around him always knew where they stood. His honesty and integrity were hallmarks of his persona. His passion for children was evident, and kids always gravitated to him.
George was preceded in death by his parents; son, Chris Bainum; and sister, Donna Kaufman.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Patricia Bainum of Julesburg; daughter, Rhonda Palic (Daniel) of Ovid; grandchildren, Josh, Ryan and Matthew; sister, Leah McAndrews of Brighton; and a host of other relatives and friends.
A memorial has been established in George’s memory for later designation, with the intent to support animal advocacy.
Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsjulesburg.com.
A celebration of life for George will be held at a later date. Inurnment will be in the Mountain View Cemetery at Bennett.
Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Julesburg is in charge of arrangements.