George D. Darby

George D. Darby, 80, passed away on November 23, 2025, at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights, after an illness that had challenged him through much of the year.
Born in Oak Park, Illinois, on May 14, 1945, to Betty and George H. Darby; George built a full and meaningful life rooted in hard work, devotion to family, and service to his country. A longtime resident of Palatine, and most recently of Huntley, Illinois, George touched the lives of many with his zest for life and ever amusing wit.
George leaves behind his beloved wife, Marilyn (nee Krueger), with whom he proudly celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on November 2nd. He is survived by his sons Keith(Ivette), Dan, and David, and his daughter Dawn, who brought him immense happiness with the birth of his grandson, Finn, just last December.
He is also survived by his sister, Judy Frischman and her husband Ron; by his brothers-and sisters-in-law Jerry and Jessica Krueger, Bob and Dina Krueger, Arlene Lubarsky, and Pat Shahinian; and by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will miss him dearly.
George was preceded in death by his parents; his sister and brother-in-law, Priscilla and Peter Lovell; his brother-in-law Jim Krueger; and his sister-in-law Carol McArthur.
A proud Marine Corps veteran, George honorably served his country in Vietnam. After returning home, he became a dedicated small-business owner, founding a group of local clothing stores including Everyone's Effort, By George, & Georgie Girl before changing gears to own his well respected painting & contracting company, G.D. Decorating.
On Friday, December 5th a visitation will be held from 9:30-10:30am at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 10 N. Buffalo Grove Rd., Buffalo Grove, Il, followed by a funeral mass at 10:30am. George's burial with military honors will take place at Ft. Sheridan National Cemetery, Lake Forest, Il at 1pm. A Celebration of Life Open House will take place that afternoon from 4:00-6:30pm at The Plum Grove Club Banquet Hall, 4001 Park Drive Palatine, Il.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lake County Honor Flight Organization at www.lakecountyhonorflight.org