Chief Master Sgt. George W. Metz, 91, died Feb. 17, 2013, at his home.
He was born in Cairo, W.Va., and lived in Vero Beach for 41 years.
He as an Army Air Corps veteran of World War II, serving in England, North Africa, Sicily, Sardinia and Italy.
After the war he continued his career in the Air Force, serving in other parts of the world including Puerto Rico, England and Spain.
He retired in 1969 after 28 years in the military and entered the retail business, owning Hopper’s Shoe Stores in Vero Beach and Stuart for 17 years.
He was a member of the Air Force Sergeant’s Association, Mokanna Masonic Lodge 329 F.&A.M. Orlando, Community Church of Vero Beach, and was a past member of the Winnebago and Allegro Travel Clubs.
Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Ann Metz; sister, Lucy Cottrill, of West Virginia; brothers, David and Ralph Metz, both of West Virginia; daughter, Patti Metz, of Vero Beach; son, G. Wayne Metz, of Lake Butler; stepson H. A. (Danny) McDaniel, of Tallahassee; stepdaughters, Lt. Col. Dana McDaniel, of Newberry and Diane McDaniel, of Vero Beach; five grandchildren; and three step-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Margaret Metz; brother, Carl J. Metz; and sisters, Della Williamson, Ora Dunlevy, Lorene Reed, and Goldie Toothman.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 12502 USF Pine Drive, Tampa, FL 33612.
Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Feb. 22 at the Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory in Vero Beach.
The funeral will follow at 7 p.m. with Joel Reif of the Community Church officiating.
Military honors will be provided by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3918.
A guest book is available at www.seawindsfh.com.