George A. Kreke of Whitehall, MI passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026 at the age of 79. Born in Chicago July 10, 1946 to Henry and Marguerite Kreke. George, a graduate of Mendel High School, class of ‘64, played football all four years. After graduation, George proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from ‘64 to ‘70. After being honorably discharged, he worked for Illinois Bell, AT&T, and later as a private business owner in the telecommunications industry. One of his “tallest” career accomplishments was participating in all phases of the construction of the Sears Tower. He continued to work there until ‘87 after forming his own business.

As a natural athlete, he continued playing football with the UFL Chicago Bulls. Despite multiple surgeries for back injuries and a chainsaw related leg injury, he managed to raise a family, forward his career, yet he couldn’t stay away from athletics. In the mid-80s, he dropped the pack and grabbed running shoes. He went on to run multiple marathons including Chicago, Marine Corps, Boston, and Nanisivik (above the Arctic Circle) as well as ultra-marathoning, including across the Grand Canyon.

George also proudly served his Chicago neighborhood community. As a big kid at heart, yet with military training, George made an excellent and much-loved Scoutmaster for his South Side of Chicago rag-tag troop. While not having deep funding, including full uniforms, under his tutelage the scouts excelled at their skills, especially marksmanship, earning merit badges. They often won troop awards at various camps. A number of his scouts went on to serve full careers within the US Armed Services.

George later retired to Whitehall where he spent his peaceful final years. Of all his attributes, his greatest one was his gift of gab. With his beautiful rhythmic and soothing voice that would penetrate all defenses, he could talk to anyone and leave a smile on their face. That, most of all, is what will be missed.

George is survived by his loving wife Chris; brother John (late wife Vicky); son Matthew and wife Michelle; son William and wife Danielle; daughter Kate and husband Chris King; granddaughters Hazel and Poppy; daughter Kelsey and husband Brandon Dutton; twin granddaughters Abbey and Penny; daughter Morgan Merrill.

The funeral will take place on Saturday, May 16 at 11:00 am at St. James Catholic Church, 5149 Dowling St., Montague, MI. Burial will take place at Oakhurst Cemetery, 1316 E. Colby St., Whitehall, MI, and a luncheon to follow immediately afterwards.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mercy Home for Boys and Girls (mercyhome.org).