George Maggio
George J. Maggio, 83, of Des Plaines; cherished husband for 57 years of Denise, nee Cannizzo; dear father of Thomas G. (Beth) Maggio and Gina Maggio Mielke (Donald) Mielke; loving Papa of Jessica, Thomas J. “T.J.” and Liana Maggio, Rylee Jane, Gavin, Mackenzie and Morgan Mielke; caring brother of the Alberta (late Eugene) Pieruccini, Paul (Theresa) Maggio and Julia (Martin A.) Carlino and devoted son of the late Peter and Diana Maggio. George will be missed by countless friends and extended family
George J Maggio was born in Chicago on May 15, 1942. He grew up in a large, loving family with his parents, Peter and Diana, and his siblings Natalie, Alberta, Paul and Julia. When he wasn’t lending a hand, hanging with friends or engaged in family events, you could find him on the baseball field. A stellar athlete from a young age, he earned recognition for his skills and a trip to the All City game where he played at Wrigley Field.
After graduating from Lane Tech High School, George dutifully joined the United States Army, where he served his country proudly. Upon returning from his station in Germany, he continued as a reservist for several years before retiring from service.
George then met the love of his life, Denise. The two were married in 1968, they went on to build a beautiful life together. Always ambitious and a high achiever, George’s work ethic was unparalleled. From owning a business to achieving rank in the field of Stationary Engineering, he worked tirelessly and at times 2 jobs to provide for his family. George and Denise loved to travel, spend time together with family and grow together in life’s greatest adventures.
His family always his focus, he was an amazing father to his son, Thomas and daughter Gina Marie. Instilling his strong work ethic in them and guidelines to a life well lived. He’d say…..
The most important thing in life is family.
Lessons are learned not just in a classroom, but in the people you meet along the path of life.
It’s not what you make, it’s what you do with what you make that matters.
Lead by example.
Treat people like you want to be treated.
Doing the right thing is never wrong.
Principles that guided them into the adults they are today and wisdom that will be passed down for generations.
Perhaps his favorite of all roles was when he earned the title of Papa! George adored his seven grandchildren, Rylee, Jessica, Gavin, TJ, Mackenzie, Liana and Morgan. Always a smile on his face when they were near, whether Sunday Dinner, a holiday, cheering on the sidelines or watching them hit major milestones, he was always there. Truly their biggest fan in every way. They were his pride and joy.
George and Denise were married 57 years, a love story that is the fabric of generations to come. Built against the principles he lead by, the example he set, the love he brought to everyone and everything he did. His legacy lives on in all those who loved him, all those he loved and in his amazing grandkids who will carry it forward. George was a fighter, who drove forward through every obstacle thrown in his path. We are grateful for every extra day he fought to give us, and we are comforted in knowing he is at peace. True to character, a final sentiment to his family was…. ‘I’ll see ya up there!”
Visitation Monday, August 11th, 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm at Colonial Wojciechowski Funeral Home 8025 W. Golf Rd. (1/2 mile East of Milwaukee Ave.) Niles, IL. Funeral Tuesday, August 12th, beginning with prayers at the funeral home at 9:15 am and processing to St. Isaac Jogues Church. Mass 10:00 am. Interment All Saints Cemetery.