George Richard Smerz Jr., born on November 18, 1938, in Illinois, passed away on May 27, 2024. George led a fulfilling life as a dedicated supervisor in the paper products manufacturing industry at Georgia-Pacific.

He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Margaret Sellers, on December 21, 1963.  She preceded him in death on September 11, 2006.

George leaves behind a legacy of love and joy. He will be remembered by his daughters, Cynthia (Glen) Hargraves and Tammie (Ray ) Cole, his grandchildren, Christy (Matthew), Joshua (Jovonnie), Sarah (Erik), Jennifer, and granddaughter-in-law Cassandra, as well as his great-grandchildren, Gregory, Travis, Charlotte, and Eli. George's brothers, Allen (Ilga) and Francis, also mourn his passing.  George is preceded in death by his parents, George and Marie Smrz Sr., wife, Margaret Smerz, grandson, John-Paul "J.P." Smerz, son-in-law, Gregory Tylock, and in-laws, Lonza and Mary Sellers.

Throughout his life, George found joy in simple pleasures. He cherished spending time fishing and camping with his beloved grandchildren. An avid model train enthusiast, George had a special place in his heart for his collection, which he housed in half of his basement. Whether on his tractor mowing lawns or clearing driveways of snow, George found peace in the outdoors. In his quiet moments, he loved nothing more than sitting on his porch basking in the sunlight.

A Funeral Service to celebrate George's life will be held at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home & Crematory on June 6, 2024, at 11:00 am. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am on the same day before the service. Following the service, George will be laid to rest on June 6, 2024, at 12:30 pm, at West Lawn Memorial Park.

George Richard Smerz Jr.'s life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and cherished memories. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched. May he rest in eternal peace.

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