George Brendan McCarthy

GEORGE B. MCCARTHY, age 94, of Albert Lea passed away on the morning of Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at his home surrounded by family.

Born on May 15, 1930, in Waseca, George was the son of George J. and Esther (Gear) McCarthy. He graduated from Waseca Central High School with the class of 1949 and from DeVry Technical Institute in Chicago in 1952. George served in the Army from 1952 to 1954, after which he continued his education at Minnesota State University – Mankato, where he earned a bachelor's degree in 1954. He later went on to earn his master's degree from the University of Northern Iowa in 1963.

George's professional career spanned 32 years as a dedicated physics and mathematics teacher, most notably at Albert Lea High School for 29 years. He retired after years of shaping young minds with his passion for learning and teaching. In 1959, George married Jean Skudlarek at Sacred Heart Church in Waseca, beginning a marriage that lasted 65 years. Together, they raised two daughters, Mary Ann and Patricia.

George was a man of many passions. He spent over 20 years researching his family history through genealogy. He was an avid enthusiast of model airplanes, an amateur radio operator, and well-known for his delicious homemade fudge. His love for family was evident, and he cherished the time spent with his class of 1949. He attended the Nobel Conference at Gustavus for many years. George was also a life member of the American Legion and VFW.

George is survived by his wife, Jean McCarthy of Albert Lea; daughters, Mary Ann (Chris) Kaufman of Glen Ellyn, IL, Patricia (Andy) Winters of Maplewood; four grandchildren, Olivia, John, Madison, Anne; and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Gerald and John McCarthy; sister, Mary Dickirson; and sister-in-law, Doreen McCarthy.

Memorials preferred to the Minnesota Zoo or organization of donor’s choice.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 AM on Monday, March 10, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waseca. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday. Burial will be held at Woodville Cemetery later that day.