George Michael Higgins, 82, of Norwalk, died Wednesday morning due to failing health. He was born Dec. 12, 1937, in Lakewood, Ohio, to the late George A. and Agnes R. (Vassel) Higgins.

He moved to Norwalk with his family at the age of 10. He graduated from Norwalk High School "Class of 1956" and continued his education in TV and radio repair. He followed his father into the folding carton business where he worked with his father operating Higgins Carton Die & Service Company until his father's death in 1970. He also worked for Norwalk Paperbox Company, Boxboard Packaging Company, and Kerr Printing before retiring from Americraft Carton Inc. in 2005. George was a die maker by trade and a jack of all trades.

A resident of Norwalk for 72 years, he enjoyed fishing and family time. George was a loving husband, father, brother, and grandfather (Papa). The eldest, George filled the void for his younger siblings when their father died at an early age, in addition to making a good life for his own small family.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Audrey M. Higgins (Camp), son and daughter-in-law, David W. and Karen Higgins; daughter and son-in-law, and Laura L. and Doug Cantley, all of Norwalk; sisters, Joyce L. and Mike Reitzel of Lufkin, TX, and Karen S. and Steve Schneider of Norwalk; brother, Greg S. Higgins of Norwalk; grandchildren, Amy Higgins of North Olmstead, Andrew Higgins of Darien, CT, Lauren Schluchter, Holly Harris, and Heather Harris, all of Norwalk.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sister, Donna J. Dann; and brothers, an infant brother, Gary T. Higgins, and Glenn A. Higgins

Memorial service and burial will be at Hester Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial gifts may be made in the name of George Higgins to African Safari Wildlife Park, 267 Lightner Road, Port Clinton, OH 43452; or the Huron County Humane Society. Online condolences may be expressed by going to www.walkereastmanheydinger.com.