George J. Burger Jr, age 77, of Huntley, Illinois passed away peacefully on Monday, December 16, 2024, at his home while surrounded by his loving family.
He was born in Chicago, Illinois to George J. Burger Sr. and Helen (Dragivich) Burger. He married Elizabeth “Betty” Bray in Chicago in 1969.
George was a proud Army Veteran who served in active combat during the Vietnam War as a member of the 145th Aviation Battalion. After his military service, George eventually went on to work for Bally Manufacturing as a Plant Manager. He had a mechanically inclined mind, and helped build pinball and slot machines for many years before retiring.
George and Betty were longtime residents of Schaumburg, before making the move to Del Webb. He joined the Huntley American Legion – Post #673, and remained a member until his time of passing. He enjoyed collecting pinball and slot machines from his former employer, and was a fanatical golfer. He built many Lionel model trains and created intricate dioramas for them to travel around. When he wasn’t busy utilizing his creative talents, George took time to feed the many birds in his neighborhood. Above all, he loved spending time with his family, and attending the many sporting events his grandchildren participated in.
In addition to his wife, Betty, George is survived by his children, George (Kristin) W. Burger, Brian (Erika) Burger, and Scott (Lisa) Burger; his sister, Kathy (Donald) Thielen; and seven grandchildren, Megan, Emily, Kathryn, Taylor, Ainsley, Abigail, and Brayden.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Thomas Burger
Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 22, 2024 from 1 pm – 4 pm at DeFiore Funeral Home in Huntley, with a prayer service at 3:30 pm.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday, December 23, 2024 at 2 pm at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Huntley. Fr. Julius Clavero will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are recommended to Huntley American Legion Post #673 or the Wounded Warrior Project.
For further information please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com.
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I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and your family during this time.
George and I were friends and coworkers for many years. He was a wonderful, kind, generous, funny man and I will miss him dearly. He did so much for all who worked for him, helped those in need of anything extra, always. Nancy , he and I had so many laughs over the years. Betty and family, my deepest sympathies to all of you in this hard time. He was one of a kind--
Brian (and family)- I am truly sorry for your loss. It is a blessing to learn that Brian got his pinball/mechanical game mindset from his dad and I hope that your family enjoys many fond memories as you celebrate his life. God bless you all during this difficult time.
So sorry to hear, Brian, it sounds like you got your mechanically inclined mind from him and can continue to keep his memory alive and pass that on to future generations each day in the classroom. Best wishes for strength and peace during this difficult time!
So sorry Betty for your lose. I’m just down the street if you need some company.
Betty, I am so sorry for your loss. God bless you and your family at this difficult time. Please feel free to call on me for help or company.
It’s hard to believe you are gone. You were such a presence. Thank you for taking good care of me every summer when we came to visit. So grateful to have you as my Godfather. I will miss the random text messages about who I’m supporting the wrong candidate and you can’t believe I live in crazy California. Remember all the shopping trips to Woodfield. I will miss you like crazy. I can still hear your voice in my head. I miss my kids met you…… they would have loved you. Matthew very much reminds me of you. I love you ….. we all do. Love, your niece and goddaughter and family.
This is heartbreaking to learn. I am so sorry for your loss. George and Betty were always so kind and welcoming to me when I was a kid. Praying for your family.
This is heartbreaking to learn. I am so sorry for your loss. George and Betty were always so kind and welcoming to me when I was a kid. Praying for your family.
George was always very funny and very kind. I will always remember the good time He, Scott, my Dad and I had at the Ryder Cup. Rest in Piece Mr. Burger.
George & Kristen, you did a remarkable job caring for your father and advocating for his care. Your actions truly made him more comfortable during his final days. May Mr. Burger rest in peace.