George J. Budig

George J. Budig, 88, a successful businessman, devoted family man, and humble philanthropist, passed away peacefully at his home in Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky surrounded by his family on December 16, 2024. A dedicated and respected leader, George’s legacy is one of excellence, generosity, and devotion to his family, his colleagues, and his community.

Born on October 1, 1936 in Newport, Kentucky to the late Marion and Otto M. Budig, Sr., George demonstrated early promise as an industrious problem solver. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout and served as a camp counselor at Camp Sunshine and Camp Ernst, instilling values of character and service that guided him throughout his life. A proud alumnus of Miami University of Ohio, he excelled as president of Beta Theta Pi fraternity, editor of the university magazine, and a distinguished graduate of the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC), selecting the Marine Corps for his service.

Following his military duty, George served as Assistant Dean of Students at Georgia Tech University before joining his family’s businesses, Budig Trucking and the George E. Fern Company. Under his visionary direction, the George E. Fern Company thrived, growing into an industry leader from 1963 to 2005 when the company was sold. In addition to his business success, George acquired and developed numerous other ventures, including Verona Bank and Foundation Bank, demonstrating a tireless work ethic and an impeccable attention to detail. No job was ever too big or too small for George, whose determination and discipline inspired everyone around him.

George’s professional achievements were complemented by his philanthropic spirit. A quiet benefactor, he gave generously to numerous non-profits and causes, especially to feed and house those in need, leaving an indelible impact on his community. 

George was a lifelong lover of nature, spending most of his free time on his picturesque Richwood Farm, where he found joy in watching his cows graze, inspecting his crops, and picking up sticks to maintain the beauty and tranquility of the land.

He always prioritized his family, cherishing his role as husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather most of all. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Mary Jo Budig; his children, Greg Budig, Bill Rusk (Aimee), Cathy Steinfeld (Brad), Shannon Guest, Cindy Budig, Melissa Collins (Tim), Christina Budig, and Rebecca Benson (Michael); grandchildren, Max Steinfeld (Allyson), Gabriel Rusk (Kiley Kastl), Will Steinfeld, Rachel Rusk, Connor Collins, Regan Collins, Brighton Guest (Kaleigh), Aidan Collins, Fjori Guest, Liam Collins, Archie Chesler, and Charlotte Benson; great-grandchildren, Sadie Steinfeld and Finnlee Guest; and his brother, Otto M. Budig, Jr. (Sally), as well as extended family and dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Bluegrass Care Navigators and BrightStar Care, especially Jeanelle James and Max Cabrera, for their exceptional compassion and support during George’s final days.

A visitation will be held at St. John’s United Church of Christ, 415 Park Avenue, Newport, Kentucky, on December 23, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a service at 12:00 PM. Services will be live streamed beginning at 10am on Monday, December 23 – please click video below to join. A private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Neediest Kids of All (P.O. Box 636666, Cincinnati, OH 45263-6666; https://www.neediestkidsofall.com/) or Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky (P.O. Box 332, Covington, KY 41012, https://emergencyshelternky.org/), causes that were deeply meaningful to George.

George’s warmth, wit, and dynamic personality made him unforgettable to those who knew him. He was a man of immense humility, always placing others before himself, and his legacy of kindness, integrity, and commitment will continue to inspire for generations to come.