George A. Stilwell

George Stilwell passed away peacefully on May 26, 2023, at the age of 91. Born on September 28, 1931, to Elbert and Clara Stilwell, George's life was a testament to compassion, love, and the power of a gentle spirit.

George possessed a quiet strength of character that emanated from his core, touching the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. Dad’s kind and compassionate nature knew no bounds, and he approached life with an open heart and a willingness to help others.

Throughout his life, George embodied the values of love and devotion in his relationships. In 1954, he married his beloved wife, Marjorie Ritchie, and together they built a life over 68 years filled with love, support, and understanding. Though Marjorie passed on before him, their bond remains unbreakable, and the memories they shared will forever be treasured.

Dad was a guiding light, providing love, support, and wisdom to his three children, Diane Turner, Doug Stilwell, and Scott Stilwell. His gentle demeanor and caring nature created a nurturing environment where his children could flourish and grow. He was their rock, their source of strength, and his love will forever be etched in their hearts.

Professionally, George dedicated 30 years of his life to John Deere, where he assembled farm machinery with meticulous care and precision. His dedication to his craft was exemplary, and he was highly regarded by his colleagues for his outstanding work ethic. George's commitment to excellence and his innate ability to work with his hands left an indelible mark on his profession and the lives of those he worked with.

Our dad’s life was not without challenges. He served his country with honor and bravery as a soldier in the Korean War. His service exemplified his selflessness and dedication to defending the values he held dear.

In his leisure time, George found solace in his love for track and field. As a young man, he participated in basketball and track events during his time at Valley High School. Throughout his life, he remained an avid fan of track and field, demonstrated by his 65 plus years of attending the Drake Relays; an event that offered him tremendous joy.

George had a genuine appreciation for the simple joys in life. He found peace and contentment in working with his hands and tending to his garden. He completed numerous home improvement projects and his green thumb produced green beans and tomatoes in his garden annually. He was a helpful neighbor and could be found shoveling snow and doing assorted tasks for his neighbors.

In his later years, as he enjoyed moments of relaxation, dad found entertainment in watching game shows like "The Price is Right" and "Wheel of Fortune." These shows provided him with moments of lightheartedness and enjoyment, allowing him to unwind and immerse himself in the excitement of the games.

George was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years Marjorie Stilwell, parents, Elbert and Clara Stilwell, brother Jack Stilwell, and sister Shirley (Richard) Schminke. He is survived by his three children: Diane Turner, Doug (Mary) Stilwell, and Scott Stilwell; four grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren; two brothers Richard (Sharon) Stilwell and Jerry Stilwell, as well as 17 nieces and nephews.

Dad’s kind and gentle presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, compassion, and kindness will continue to inspire and guide us all. And finally, as he would say, “So long, it’s been good to know you!”

The family will greet friends from 6-8 pm on Friday, June 2 at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel in West Des Moines. Private burial of the cremated remains will be at Resthaven Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to WesleyLife Hospice in Urbandale.