George Stephen Rea, Sr., age 77, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, surrounded by his family at home in Edina, Minnesota.

George is survived by his wife of 56 years, Terri, their children George Rea, Jr. (Monica Kristo), and Julie Rea (Jason Tufty), stepson Steven Sterner, grandchildren, Maia Rea Cross (Thomas), Alex Hiltunen, Celena Rea, Kiele Sterner, Kaela Sterner, Bo Kristo, his brother Jake Rea, his brothers-in-law and sister-in-law Robert Finnerty, Jerry and Judy Finnerty, niece and nephews Ann and Tony Finnerty and Nick Rea, and goddaughters Arianne Smith and Jenna McGuire (Paul).

George and Terri married early in life, and they met each joy, challenge, and season of life with determination, devotion, and true love that spanned 56 years. Together they raised a family, built two businesses, and created a home filled with laughter and love. In later years, they found joy in cherishing the time they had together each day.

George was a man of great depth who found happiness in life’s simplest moments. He never had a bad day because he understood the secret to happiness was gratitude, and he carried it with him at every stage of his life.

A storyteller, a jokester, and an eternal optimist, George had a rare ability to turn ordinary moments into pure magic. He could transform anything at hand into a toy, a game, or a reason to laugh. He could see the potential in any situation and found adventure waiting quietly in the corners of everyday life.

Throughout his life, George was an entrepreneur, a volunteer, a teacher, and a life-long learner. Endlessly curious, he was fascinated by science, space, and diving deeply into any subject that sparked his interest. He could discuss an astonishing range of subjects with passion and depth and was always eager to explore something new.

George was a loyal friend and a steadfast presence in the lives of those he loved. He had a rare gift for meeting everyone exactly where they were. He was delighted to share interests, stories, and his genuine curiosity and empathy made everyone who met him feel seen and valued. His warmth, his laughter, and his love will be forever cherished by those fortunate enough to have shared it with him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 2, 2026, from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm at the Bloomington Event Center, 1114 American Blvd W, Bloomington, MN 55420. In tribute to George’s unique style, Hawaiian shirts are welcomed. Memorials preferred to the Rea Family’s charity: Wishes and More, granting wishes to children with terminal and life-threatening conditions.