George Bottema, age 93, of Norwalk passed away on Jan. 24, 2013. He was born on Nov. 7, 1919 in Clearwater, CA (Paramount). He attended Norwalk Grammar School and graduated from Excelsior High School, Class of 1939. In 1948, he married his "sweetie", Jody, with whom he had four children - Larry, Lynne, Dale and Gayle. After high school, when he wasn't wrenching on or drag racing his 1929 Model A Roadster, he helped run the family dairy where he milked 90 cows twice a day. He later put his mechanical skills to use working for ABC Unified School District as a mechanic and shop foreman for 24 years, until retiring in 1984. George enjoyed traveling and took many family camping trips throughout Southern California and the Western United States. After his retirement, he and Jody traveled throughout North America and abroad. As a dedicated and active member of the Norwalk community, George volunteered for the Norwalk Coordinating Council, Norwalk Historical Heritage Commission and Cerritos College Boosters. He also acted as a city commissioner and a docent at the Johnston-Hargitt House. George leaves behind a loving family and many friends who will deeply miss his kind heart and generous spirit. Services will be held Saturday, Feb. 2 11:00 AM at SkyRose Chapel, Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier, CA.