George Iver Perry Lodoen, USArmy, Ret.

George Iver Perry Lodoen, age 86, peacefully passed away on Monday, June 5, 2023 at the VNA Hospice House, in Vero Beach, Florida.

Born on September 2, 1936, in San Antonio, Texas, he was the son of the late Major General George O. N. Lodoen and Ruth Elizabeth (Perry) Lodoen.

As a child, George lived in Panama and the Philippines where his father was stationed during his military service.  In 1955, He graduated high school from St. Andrew's School in Middletown, Delaware.  George continued his education at Texas A&M University from 1955 - 1957, where he became a member of the ROTC.

George was Appointed as a Candidate at the United States Military Academy at West Point, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1963.   While at Ft. Benning, Georgia, he completed Army Ranger Training in 1963, and Airborne Training in 1964.  During his military career, George served two tours in the Vietnam War where he was Headquarters and Company Commander of the first airborne regimen in Germany from 1964-1966.  He then held the same position at the U.S. 9th Division in the Republic of Vietnam.

In 1966, he completed Jumpmaster Training at the 8th Division Airborne School at the United States European Command (USAREUR), and after returning to Ft Benning in 1969, he completed the Infantry Officer's Advance Course in the U.S. Army Infantry School.  From 1970-1975, he was Headquarters and Company Commander in the U.S. Army Europe.

Some of George's Vietnam War experiences are featured in the book " Into Cambodia " by Keith Nolan.  George was a multiple Bronze Star Medal of Valor recipient and additionally earned the Commendation Medal, Air Medal, and Combat Infantryman Badge.

In 1974, George furthered his education and graduated from Boston University with a Master's Degree in Education.   In 1978, He retired from the Army as a Captain, and began what would be many years of teaching high school mathematics.

Throughout the years, George was a part of many clubs and societies, including; the Cadet Parachute Club, the Pistol Club, the Ski Club, the Debate Council and Forum, the Rocket Society, the Ring and Crest Committee, and the Spanish Club.

George was a family man first and foremost and he loved his family with his whole heart.   His family and his military service were the two things he was most proud of.   He additionally held a passion for reading and traveling the world.  His favorite place to visit was Ecuador.

George is remembered by his family for his valor, bravery, strength, and resilience. He was always focused, determined on what he set his mind to, and above all, a true fighter.  He is also remembered for his incredible sense of humor, his ability to put a smile on everyone's face, and his unmatched storytelling skills.  George had the natural leadership ability to inspire people in even the most difficult situations.

George is survived by his loving wife, Alicia Lodoen; his three children, Michelle Camacho, Andrew Lodoen, and Christina Lodoen; and his five grandchildren, Garrett, Grace, Davis, Kayla, and Samantha.  He will be additionally missed by his beloved German Shephard Grand-Puppy, Mila Lodoen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at St. Helen Catholic Church in Vero Beach, Florida.  Interment with Military Honors will follow at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery at 2:30 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at CoxGiffordSeawinds.com.