John Edward George Jr.

John was born on May 19, 1952, in Marysville, Ohio, to Anne Marie George (née Gibson) and John Edward George Sr. He was the oldest of five children and carried that role throughout his life—leading with steadiness, responsibility, and care for others.

John made an incredible journey during his lifetime, serving his country, state, and community with great honor. He left Ohio to attend the National College of Education, where he pursued a calling to become a middle school science teacher. It was there that he met Margaret “Peg” Glas, a fellow student who would become his wife, partner, and soulmate. Together, they worked on various theater productions. John and Peg were married on March 2, 1974, in Evanston, Illinois. John and Peg shared a life of travel, service, and deep partnership, raising two cherished children.

John began his professional life in education, teaching middle school science, including at Northwood School in Highwood, Illinois. While teaching, he worked summers as beach police, an experience that introduced him to law enforcement and ultimately led him to a new calling. He worked at Northeastern University’s campus police department before serving with the Morris Police Department and later transferring to the Illinois State Police. John retired as a Sergeant after 23 years of service on March 31, 2007.

In addition to his law enforcement career, John proudly served in both the United States Coast Guard and the Army National Guard. He enlisted in the Coast Guard in April 1986 and was honorably discharged in March 1996. His military service included Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti, Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia, and Operation Joint Endeavor/Joint Guard in Bamberg, Germany.

Committed to lifelong learning and justice, John earned a Master of Arts in Social Justice Professions from Sangamon State University in May 1993.

Retirement did not slow John down. He taught criminal justice at Westwood, co-owned 7Paintball with his son, and later drove for Meals on Wheels. However, his favorite role—and the one that brought him the most joy—was being Santa Claus. John worked with park districts, charities, churches, and local organizations, bringing the magic of Christmas to countless children. Any money he earned went toward improving his Santa suit, purchasing trinkets for children, or supporting charities close to his heart, especially Imagine No Malaria.

John also gave generously of his time through service and faith. He served on the Milne/Kelvin School Board in the 1990s and was deeply active at Lockport United Methodist Church in Lockport, Illinois, for over 30 years. His many roles included high school Sunday school teacher, mission trip chaperone, lay leader, guest preacher, and more. His faith was lived through action, compassion, and service to others.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Peg; his children, Sarah (Michael) and John (Elyse); and his treasured grandchildren, Anthony, DeAndre, and Marianna. He is also survived by his siblings Brenda, Steve (Vicky), Lila, and Loren (Ann), along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

John will be remembered for his dedication to service, his deep faith, his love of teaching, and his joy in sharing kindness—especially through the magic of Christmas. His legacy is one of honor, generosity, and love.

A Celebration of Life will be planned for the summer of 2026. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lockport United Methodist Church in Lockport, Illinois, which will forward contributions to Imagine No Malaria.