George Johnson

George B. Johnson

Age 84 of Wilmington, passed away Saturday morning February 15, 2014 at the Joliet Area Community Hospice Home.

Born October 16, 1929 in Ottawa, Illinois, George was a son of the late Diedrich Herman and Nettie Mae Happily-Johnson. He worked at Treadman's Garage and for Muncey Trucking in Wilmington, prior to entering into the United States Marine Corps. While in the service, George worked as Military Police and served in Korea before his honorable discharge in November of 1955. Upon his return home, George gained employment as an officer with the Wilmington Police Department until 1966, when he went on to work for the Werden Buck Company. It was there that George transported brick until he retired after 37 years of faithful service. In the year 1966, George also joined the Wilmington Fire Department, where he remained active for many years, and was currently still an auxiliary member. George belonged to the Wilmington VFW Post #5422 and the American Legion Post #191, which he held the position of Commander for three terms. In his free time, George enjoyed puzzles, painting, cutting grass and working on small engines. He will forever be remembered for his devotion to always helping others.

Survivors include three sisters: Edna Schiradelly of Mount Ulla, North Carolina, Ruth Kelly of Peoria and Helen Harms of Minonk, Illinois and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and great-great nieces, as well as a host of friends.

George was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters: Mary Klausing and Martha Littlefair and four brothers: Herman, John and Raymond Johnson, as well as one in infancy.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday February 19, 2014 between the hours of 4:00PM and 8:00PM at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington. Funeral services will follow Thursday February 20th at 10:00AM in the funeral home with Pastor Chris Beamsley from Grace Lutheran Church officiating. Burial with full military honors will be in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood at 11:30AM.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in George's memory to the Wilmington VFW Post 5422 or American Legion Post 191, 557 West Baltimore Street, Wilmington, Illinois 60481.

Friends may sign the online guest book by logging onto: www.BaskervilleFuneral.com

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. (815/476-2181)