George T. Searls

George Tolson Searls, age 92, of Kankakee, peacefully passed away on Saturday, June 10, 2023, at his home, with his daughters by his side. He was born at St Mary’s Hospital, in Kankakee, on October 29, 1930, the son of George Rich and Mable (Tolson) Searls. George met Betty Joan Vance on a blind date, and later married on June 20, 1953 in Paris Illinois, at the First Christian Church. George was a jack of all trades and master of them all. He worked several jobs over the years. Armour Pharmaceuticals, Imperial International Learning and retired from Kankakee School District 111. He volunteered his time for many years on the school board. He also served as election judge, and on the City Planning Commission. George graduated from Kankakee High School and the University of Illinois. He then joined the United States Army and served as a captain in the Korean War. George was a lifelong dedicated member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. He served as acolyte, usher, and warden for many years. George was a very positive, selfless, & uplifted man, who would do anything for anyone. He cherished & loved life, yet expressing he was ready to go home. He climbed Mount Hood, helped his father-in-law farm in Paris Illinois. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and water skiing, playing golf and tennis. He looked forward to spending time with his children, grandchildren, and his great grandchildren. He also enjoyed spending time with his lunch bunch on Fridays. Surviving are his daughters, Cynthia (Searls) Dupuis and Laura (Searls) Richard Wenzelman one daughter-in-law, Amy (Yovich) Searls; 10 grandchildren, Marah, Abigail, Van, and Joel (Mia) Searls. Kelsey (Erik)Tobey, Carly (Brian) Elliot, Luke Wenzelman, Ben (Claire) Wenzelman, Tori (Tim) O’Brien, and Bryce Tully Dupuis, 11 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and cousin Susan (Searls) Morris. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years Betty Jo, who passed on August 2, 2014, son George Vance, who passed away on March 24, 2022, sister Elizabeth (Searls) Harrington and cousin Joseph Tolson. A celebration of life for George will be held at St Paul's Episcopal Church, in Kankakee on Saturday, August 19, 2023 from 9 AM until the service at 11 AM. Father Shane Spellmeyer will officiate, and all are invited to bring a story to share during the service. A luncheon will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Laura Wenzelman, for George’s wishes. Well done, Dad, Grandpa, Great Grandpa! PAX