George Henry Veitch, Vietnam Veteran and Longtime USDA Employee, Passes Away at 76
George Henry Veitch, a dedicated Vietnam War veteran and longtime employee of the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, died of natural causes at his home in Ruthven, Iowa, the morning of March 30, 2026. Veitch was 76 years old.
Born on May 21, 1949, in Spencer, Iowa, Veitch’s life was marked by unwavering commitment—to family, country, and his profession. He was a proud member of the Spencer High School Class of 1967 who cultivated a lifelong passion for history and a deep love for animals, caring for numerous pets over the years.
Vietnam Service and Military Honors
In 1969, Veitch enlisted in the Army and courageously served with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division—colloquially known as “Tropical Lightning”—during the Vietnam War. His active duty spanned over 19 months, during which he earned several distinguished medals including the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge, and the Army Commendation Medal.
Veitch’s military service is an important part of his enduring legacy, representing the sacrifice and resolve of Vietnam-era veterans nationwide.
46 Years of Dedicated USDA Service
After his military service, Veitch began his career with the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service in April 1973. His first posts were in Waterloo and Storm Lake, Iowa. He was renowned not only for his professional skill but also for his warm personality that made him a favorite of colleagues and customers alike.
Veitch’s career included an international chapter when he took a two-year leave starting in November 1982 to support his wife LeAnn’s work in Lusaka, Zambia. There, he lent his expertise to Hybrid Poultry, LTD, improving poultry slaughter operations across Zambia, and embraced travel across East and Southern Africa.
Returning to the US in 1984, Veitch continued his USDA work with assignments in Oregon and, later, on the Big Island of Hawaii, where he combined his work at Hawaii Beef Producers with a passion for golf. He was active in the local Hamakua Country Club in Honokaa and remained beloved by his golfing peers.
Family and Community Impact
George Veitch and his wife of 44 years, LeAnn J. McGranahan, shared a life full of travel and service. He is survived by LeAnn; his sister, Patricia Anderson of Spirit Lake; several nieces and great-nieces and nephews; and a remarkable menagerie of pets including two dogs and nine cats.
The couple’s final move was back to Iowa in June 2021 after Veitch’s retirement, settling in Ruthven where he remained a local pillar until his passing. His readiness to help, engaging storytelling, and constant smile will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
“George was always the first to step up whenever work was needed and was cherished by everyone at the USDA and his community,” a family representative said.
Celebration of Life and Charitable Requests
A celebration of George Veitch’s life is planned for July 2026. The family requests no donations, but those wishing to honor his memory may contribute to People for Pets in Spencer, reflecting his lifelong compassion for animals. Geelan Funeral Home is assisting the family.
George Veitch’s passing resonates as a loss not only to his family and friends but also to the wider community that benefited from his dedication to public service, military valor, and kind spirit.
This story will be updated as more details become available.
