George Edward DePaola of Carbon Cliff, Illinois died June 27, 2023 at age 76 after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his cousins Christine Johansen Patrick of Greenville, SC and Catherine Leigh Johansen of Hilton Head Island, SC; by nephew Robert Magnowski of Wisconsin; his beloved dog Suzy, and by friends Tony and Cyndi Flowers of Illinois. He is predeceased in death by parents Edward George DePaola and Irene Johansen DePaola, by sisters Phyllis DePaola and Peggy DePaola Magnowski, and by wife Geraldine Raymond DePaola.

George was born in Louisville, Kentucky in 1947 before his family moved first to Indiana and then Wisconsin prior to settling in Illinois. Following graduation from high school, George worked in the foundry for International Harvester, later McLaughlin Body, while nurturing a passion for restoring cars, particularly Camaros and Ford Model A's. He was active in the Edwards River Antique Engine Association and Atkinson Vintage Farm Equipment Show, among other groups.

George particularly enjoyed going to flea markets and garage sales, usually accompanied by his beloved dogs, where he was well-known as the "Funny Hat Guy" for his extensive collection of headwear. He also earned many friends and leaves the best of memories among all those who were blessed to know him.

Funeral services will be 10 am Friday, June 30, 2023, at the Van Hoe Funeral Home, East Moline. Visitation will be one hour prior at the funeral home. Private graveside services will be held at Fairmount Cemetery, Willow Springs, IL.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made to a favorite charity to support cancer victims or research.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vanhoe.com