

On July 27, 1957, George married the love of his life, Betty Patterson, with whom he built his family and enjoyed many wonderful years.
In his younger years, George built a career as an Assembler for Caterpillar, working on DC9 tractors from which he retired in 1992.
Known for embracing life to the fullest, George never missed an opportunity to enjoy a night out with friends or to indulge in a good fishing trip where he found relaxation paired with a good drink. His love of music, especially the timeless songs of Fats Domino, provided the soundtrack to many cherished memories & could always bring a smile to his face.
George also held a deep passion for traveling, which he shared with his beloved wife. Together they created a lifetime of memories exploring new places. Some of their happiest moments were the simplest ones, taking leisurely drives in their convertible with the top down, the open road ahead, & nowhere in particular to be except together. Above all else, George was a beloved husband, family man, & friend with an unwavering love for those closest to him. His greatest happiness came from spending time by her sides.
George is survived by two daughters, Marcia Galletti of Chillicothe IL, & Missy Moores of Peoria IL, two sisters, Diane Welch of Chillicothe IL, Barb Jones of Ottawa IL, & one brother, Charlie Patterson of North Carolina, four grandchildren, Sara Colton of Michigan, Jonathan Boroughf of Michigan, Allan Boroughf of Georgia, & William Joplin of Peoria IL, as well as several cherished great-grandchildren.
Proceeding George in death are his parents John & Edna, his wife Betty, one brother Johnny Patterson, one sister Joan Mcintrye, & one grand-daughter Penny Joplin.
George will be remembered for his warm spirit, love of fun, adventurous heart, and the happiness he brought to everyone who knew him. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on in the stories, laughter, music, and memories he leaves behind.
May he rest in peace, with the sound of Fats Domino playing and endless open roads stretching before him.
A visitation will be held from 2 – 3 pm, followed by a funeral service Saturday July 18, 2026, at Davision Fulton Woodland Chapel in Peoria. Burial will follow at Parkview Cemetery in Peoria.
Memorial contributions may be made to Shiners Hospital in Chicago, IL & condolences may be shared with the family through the funeral home at Davison-Fulton.com
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