In Memoriam – George Voitik

St. George Class of 1949

Passed away Thursday, February 8, 2024 at the age of 92 at Rock Run Memory Care, Joliet, where he was lovingly cared for by the staff and Lightways Hospice. His presence will be deeply missed by everyone whose lives he touched.

George is survived by his wife Isabel (Sefcik) Voitik; children George W. (Lindsay) Voitik Jr., Patrick (Mary Lou) Voitik, Mary Sue (John) Cason and Margaret Voitik; step children Susan (Samuel) Martin, Sally (Chris) Orozco, Sandra (Matthew) Campbell, John Sefcik and David (Stacie) Sefcik.

George is survived by his grandchildren Thomas (Danit) and William (Kathleen) Voitik, Emily, Grace and Claire Cason, Anne (Ben) Pry, Erin (Jacob) Temple, Colleen Martin, Jacob and Sarah Orozco, Dan (Jessica) Campbell, Joe and Tom Campbell, Connor and Liam Sefcik, Ava and Nate Sefcik and five great-grandchildren. George has four brothers, the late Robert (Vera) Voitik, Darrell (Gail) Voitik, Daniel (Susan) Voitik and Michael (Nancy) Voitik. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

George was preceded in death by his son John Martin Voitik; first wife Barbara Lou (Metzger) Voitik; parents George M. and Lucile (Taylor) Voitik.

Born in Joliet, grew up in Evanston, IL. Graduated from St. George High School in Evanston and Loyola University. George proudly served in the U.S. Navy. Following his military service, George embarked on a career as a salesman that spanned several decades, retiring from Berry Bearing in 1996.

George enjoyed many interests and hobbies. He particularly loved building and flying model airplanes, as a member of the Woodland Aero Modelers. George also enjoyed woodworking, camping and being a member of the Joliet Writers Club. George was an active member of the Cathedral of St. Raymond acting as an usher and volunteering at Daybreak. George served on the St. George High School Alumni Board for 40 years.

George will forever be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering dedication, and the love he showered upon his family and friends. As we bid farewell to him, let us carry forward the lessons he taught us—love unconditionally, pursue our passions, and cherish every moment spent with those we hold dear. Rest in peace, George, knowing that your memory will live on in our hearts forever.

Funeral from the Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home, 1500 Black Rd, Joliet, Thursday February 15, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. to the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus, 604 N. Raynor Ave., Joliet, for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m.  Interment at All Saints Cemetery in Des Plaines, IL at a later date. Visitation Wednesday from 3-7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers memorials to the following Joliet organizations: Lightways Hospice, The Cathedral of St. Raymond or the Visitation and Aid Society would be appreciated.

In Memoriam – William Kearns,

St. George Class of 1950

William Edward “Bill” or “Coach” Kearns was born at Grant Hospital in Chicago on April 30, 1932 and passed away on January 15, 2024 at the age of 91. He was the youngest of six children and was a proud graduate of St. George High School (Class of 1950) in Evanston. In 1953, he married Mary Ann McCarthy of Barrington, a marriage that would last 70 years!

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, James and Marie (nee Tuke) Kearns, his brother James Kearns, sisters Patricia (Paul) Warrick, Mary (Bob) Richards, Margaret “Joan” (Peter) Ciavarella, Sarah “Sally” (Jack) Hake, and his son Daniel Kearns.

He is survived by his beautiful wife Mary Ann, sons Mike (Eileen), Jim (Theresa), Kevin (Peggy) and Larry, grandchildren Colleen (Tim) McCloskey, Alana (Mike) Duffy, Maggie (Justin) Hutchens, Jessica (Chris) Matthews, Stephanie (Tommy) Reedy, Brian Kearns, Danny (Michelle) Kearns, Katelyn (Todd) Lorenz, and Sarah (Danny) Canace, and eighteen great-grandchildren.

Bill had a remarkable career as a Catholic high school coach on the north side and near northern suburbs of Chicago. This career spanned over eight decades beginning in the 1950’s and ending in 2021. He coached thousands of players in sports such as football, basketball, baseball and tennis. He not only taught the basic fundamentals, but also valuable life lessons such as leadership, teamwork and sportsmanship. Bill was also a proud veteran of the U.S. Army.

St. George High School played a very important part of Bill’s life over the past 75+ years. He was a very active member of the alumni association and was great friends with many of its members. They truly were his brothers.

Bill’s life was grounded by his strong Catholic faith, and his unconditional love and support of his family. He set a great example for all.

Donations to Misericordia in Bill’s memory are appreciated.

Services will be held privately.