George T. Stear

PEORIA-George T. Stear, 91, of Peoria passed away Monday, October 9, 2017 at his residence.

He was born in Peoria, IL on June 2, 1926, the son of George and Bernice LaFolett Stear. He married Viola M. Redenius on August 9, 1946. She passed away on May 15, 2016. He was also preceded in death by one granddaughter Sherald Crawley, 3 brothers and 8 sisters.

Surviving are two daughters, Sherry (John) Gasparovich of Peoria and Sharon Keeling of Spokane, WA; one son Russel (Mary) Stear of Dahlonega, GA. Also surviving are 9 grandchildren, Tara Sharpe (Doug Topp), Tracy (Chuck Paquet) Mertens, Alyssa (Ian) Fisher, James (Tina) Fisher, Benjamin Keeling, Jasmine Keeling, Crystina Stear, Kelly (Mike) Tope, and Jessica (Jef) Welch along with 10 great grandchildren. Further surviving are four sisters, Ava Williamson, Patsy St. Clair (Don) Farden, Beverly St. Clair (Sol) Snyder, and Alice (Donny) Chitwood along with a host of nieces, nephews great nieces great nephews and many cousins.

George was a WWII Army Veteran serving from 1944 until his honorable discharge in 1946. After his discharge he returned to Peoria and worked for Hiram Walkers, later working for ADM until his retirement in 1989. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Peoria.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Saturday, October 14, 2017 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Pastor Mark Nelson will officiate. Visitation will be one-hour prior to his service. Inurnment will be at a later date in Cottonwood Cemetery in rural Hanna City. Memorials in his name may be given to Trinity Lutheran Church. To share memories and condolences with the family, visit www.peoriafuneral.com.