Obituary of George Stefik

Stefik: George Frank -

A resident of Chatham, George Stefik passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, Chatham Campus surrounded by his loving family on Friday, April 18, 2025 at the age of 90.

Born in Wallaceburg and raised in Chatham Township, George was the son of the late Charles and Emily (née Lucky) Stefik.

Beloved husband of over 60 years to Loretta (née Laprise ).

Loving and cherished father to Susan Gillet (Randy), Barbara French (late Ron) and Ron Stefik.

Proud Grandpa of Rebecca Byrne (Jeff), Stacey Harper (Wayne), Sara French (Lee) and Aaron Stefik.

"Grandpa George" to Victoria, Braeden, Savanna, Ryman and Aurora.

Dear brother to the late Charles Stefik (Mildred), Emily Geroux (late Ray), Dennis Stefik (Billie Gail) and Jarka Pelisek (George).

Brother-in-law to Raymond Laprise (late Margaret) and the late Marie Laprise.

Also missed by nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.

George began his life working on the farm, and the farm remained a special place for him throughout his entire life. Even throughout his 31 year career at International Harvester and the 10 years he spent running his own renovation business, he ensured that the farm was part of his life. He lived in very close proximity to his siblings and he was always available to assist them. Later in life, George was able to watch the next generation till the land.

George was a man of many talents and many hobbies. He renovated many properties and could often be found plumbing, doing carpentry and electrical and even welding. George even had his own blacksmith forge at home, and was able to build hinges, do ironwork, and even made a sword for his son. If swords were not enough, George built his own black powder rifle in 1967. He also was a proud gardener and fur trapper.

George was fascinated with history, antiques and artifacts, paleoanthropology and anything found in a National Geographic. George was passionate about reading, his topic of late being the history of Kent County. George and Loretta were ambitious world travellers. They had visited almost every island in the Caribbean and voyaged on many a cruise ship. Some of their more memorable trips included China, Egypt, Italy, France, England, parts of South America, and of course Moosejaw.

Most of all, George will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend. He was even-tempered throughout his entire life and was always available to lend a hand to his family: even going so far as to help them build a chicken coop or an outhouse.

A Private Family Service will be held for George with an interment to follow at Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham.

Donations made in memory of George to the Pet and Wildlife Rescue, Heart and Stroke Foundation or Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

519-351-2040