George Joseph Sotiroff, 99, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 5:50 a.m. on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at Evercare of Granite City.
He was born on June 1, 1927, in Madison, Illinois, the son of the late Chris and Veronica (Neibecker) Sotiroff.
George married the love of his life, Mattie Margaret Logan, on October 25, 1952, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Madison. Together they shared nearly 70 years of marriage before her passing on November 6, 2021.
A proud patriot, George honorably served his country in the United States Army during World War II. Following his military service, he began a distinguished career with Illinois Power, where he worked in engineering for 37 years before retiring in 1989. Even in retirement, George remained committed to serving others, volunteering with AARP for 23 years assisting individuals with tax preparation.
Faith was the cornerstone of George’s life. He was a longtime and devoted member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Granite City, where he generously shared his time and talents as a lector, usher, and member of many committees. His dedication to his parish and community reflected his deep commitment to helping others and living his faith.
George found great joy outdoors and had a lifelong passion for gardening. He especially enjoyed raising beautiful roses and was instrumental in the development and success of the outdoor classroom program within the Granite City School District. His love of nature, education, and community service left a lasting impact on many lives.
He is survived by his loving daughter and son-in-law, Deborah and Gregory Wagner of Goldendale, Washington; five cherished grandchildren, Amanda Park, Dan Sotiroff, Brandon Sotiroff, Ryan Sotiroff, and Kara Sotiroff; five great-grandchildren, Junhee Park, Jameson Sotiroff, Weston Sotiroff, Emmett Sotiroff and Laura Sotiroff; his brother, Chris A. Sotiroff of Decatur, Illinois; daughter-in-law, Joanne Sotiroff of Woodstock, Illinois; sister-in-law, Jackie Logan of Granite City; several cousins in Missouri; and many other extended family members and dear friends.
In addition to his beloved wife and parents, George was preceded in death by his son, George C. Sotiroff; his sister-in-law, Betty Sotiroff; and his brother-in-law, Harry Logan.
George will be remembered for his unwavering faith, quiet strength, generous spirit, and lifelong dedication to his family, church, country, and community. His legacy of service and kindness will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.
Visitation will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church, 2606 Washington Avenue in Granite City, on Monday, June 15, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m., with Father Steve Thompson officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Edwardsville.
Memorial donations may be made to Holy Family Catholic Church or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.irwinchapel.com.
