George E. Nabinger

George E. Nabinger, age 91, of Cortland died Monday, March 20, 2017 at Menorah Park of Syracuse, N.Y.

George is survived by his four children: Richard E. (Sandra) Nabinger of Ahoskie, NC, Anne E. (Gene) McLaughlin of Charlotte, NC, Joan E. (Mick) Lowie of Cortland, NY and Mary Ellen (Doug) Bloodgood of Little York, NY. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

George is predeceased by his wife, Norma (McKinney) Nabinger, a brother, Robert Nabinger and a granddaughter Theresa Bloodgood.

George retired from the U.S. Army in 1969 as a 1st Sargent, after spending more than 30 years in the service. He is a veteran of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. George was a master jumper and member of the 101st and 502nd Army Airborne units in Germany during WWII, and the 82nd Airborne unit during the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

George served as a member of the U.S. Army Special Forces Unit, currently known as Special Operations and commonly referred to as the Army Green Berets. This elite group of fighters are the most specialized experts in unconventional warfare and undertake a range of activities, including counterterrorism and humanitarian efforts. George was a team leader and weapons and combat specialist for the Special Forces. Following active service, George was stationed at the Fort Bragg military base in Fayetteville, NC, home of the 82nd Airborne Division and Special Forces Command. While at Fort Bragg, George trained recruits and was the most senior noncommissioned officer.

George grew up in Cortland, N.Y. and was the son of George Nabinger, Sr. and Melba (Westlake) Nabinger. Following his time in the service, George was as a Service Manager at Montgomery Ward in Ithaca for 20 years. After retiring, George and Norma pursued their shared love of travel, visiting very state in the U.S., every province in Canada and most of Europe and Mexico. He was also a member of the American Legion Cortland City Post #489.

A private ceremony for family was held on Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to the Menorah Park Employee Fund online at menorahparkofcny.com/online-giving/ or by calling 315-446-9111 x141.

 Service Information