Geoffrey “Mac” McIlhenny 67, passed away at home Sunday August 30, 2020. He leaves behind his beloved daughter Ann Marie McIlhenny who held the most special place in his heart, former wife Sandy McIlhenny and step daughter Jeneen LaSpino. Geoff grew up in North Wales, PA in a large family of 11 brothers and sisters, Jack (deceased), Susie, June, Tim, Mary, Barbara, Carol, Bob, Phil and Paul. He also leaves behind his loving mother Suzanne. He is predeceased by his father John McIlhenny. Geoff attended Saint Rose of Lima Elementary, Pennbrook Junior High and North Penn High School where he excelled on the varsity football and wrestling teams.
Upon graduation, Geoff proudly entered the United States Navy where he learned and perfected his skill as a heavy equipment operator as part of the famed Navy Seabees. He was stationed in San Diego, Port Hueneme, Guantanamo Bay and lastly Key West, FL. While stationed at these bases, Geoff continued his passion for riding motorcycles up the Pacific Coast Highway and through the Florida Keys. He loved riding his bike to the Hollywood Bowl for concerts as well. Geoff was a Harley Davidson guy at his core. Many of his most memorable trips were on his ‘72 FLH Shovelhead to upstate New York for the Harley Rendezvous Classic. He was a very proud and long standing member of the Reading Motorcycle Club (RMC) in Oley, PA where he made life-long friendships.
All through his very independent life, Geoff hunted and fished. No deer or fish was too big or too challenging for him. Brothers Jack, Bob, Phil and Paul each had adventures with their brother in the woods, on a lake, or in a stream.
Geoff was also a member of the Local 542 Operating Engineers Union. He expertly operated many types of heavy equipment on construction projects all over Pennsylvania and the Metro-Phila Area.
Geoff was in a car accident coming home from work in March 2014. He suffered many severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, which required two years of rehabilitation. He fought hard and ultimately returned to his home in the woods outside Boyertown and to his very loyal dog Moshu. Geoff was very thankful to his brother Tim, who helped him through this life-changing ordeal and for the wonderful care he received from family and friends, especially Big Jon Warsheski and Sara Bill. Lauren, Mim and Dee were there for him through much of his care. Many more family and friends displayed much kindness to Geoff these last years.
Big Jon sent Tim this quote by Mark Frost that sums up Geoff perfectly: “Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body. But rather, to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming... WOW what a ride.”
Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Geoff’s life at Linwood W. Ott Funeral Home Friday Sept. 11 from 6-8 pm and Saturday Sept. 12 from 10-12 am. In lieu of flowers, we ask you to consider making a donation in Geoff’s name to the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania, that enabled him to have the extensive recovery he vitally needed after his car accident. Visit biapa.org to make a tribute donation in memory of Geoff McIlhenny.
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