George J. Higgins, 93, of Benton, passed away on June 2, 2017, at the Anchor of River to River Community of Marion.
He was born on September 3, 1923, to George and Marie (McCurdy) Higgins in Elkville, IL. George retired as a Mine Superintendent for Freeman Coal Company. On May 24, 1945, he married the former Marie Endres and she proceeded him in death. George served in the Navy during WWII on the Battleship New Jersey.
George was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Benton, IL, the Benton Elks, Bocce Ball Club, and the Benton American Legion. He was a devoted father, grandfather and great grandfather. After his retirement he enjoyed gardening, golfing and fishing.
George is survived by his children, Dennis (Pam) Higgins of Highland, IL, Lyn Higgins of Benton, IL, Patrick (Robin) Higgins of Columbus, OH, Ted (Celeste) Higgins of Benton, IL, and Gina (Greg) Gajewski of O’Fallon, MO; seven grandchildren, Heather (Richard) Rabinowitz of Palm Harbor, FL, Ann (Perry) Osborn of Des Moines, IA, Hayley (Jeff) Knick of Columbus, OH, Kelsey Higgins of Columbus, OH, Kayla Gajewski of O’Fallon, MO, Ryan (Roxanne) Gajewski of Denver, CO, and Nathanael Higgins of Benton, IL; six great-grandchildren, Olivia Rabinowitz of Palm Harbor, FL, Karleigh Osborn of Des Moines, IA, Briella Osborn of Des Moines, IA, Steffen Osborn of Des Moines, IA, Cainan Osborn of IA, and Miles Knick of Columbus, OH.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his loving wife, Marie Higgins.
Arrangements are under the direction of Pate Funeral Home, 301 S. Main St., Benton, IL.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 7, 2017, 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m., at Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 7, 2017, 10:30 a.m., at the St. Joseph Catholic Church, Benton, IL, with Fr. Urban, officiating.
Burial will follow services at Elkville Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at the funeral home.
Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.
Speak Your Mind
You must be logged in to post a comment.