Obituary of George McCarter Stuhr
George McCarter Stuhr, a man who truly lived life to its fullest, passed away, Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the age of 88, at his home in Joliet, IL. He was born, June 21, 1937, in Weehawken, NJ, the son of the late William and Marie Stuhr. Known for his sharp mind, adventurous spirit, and wide-ranging talents, he leaves behind a legacy of accomplishment, service, and deep personal connection.
He attended military school in his youth before graduating from Seton Hall University. He went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Navy, an experience that helped shape his discipline and lifelong sense of duty. Following his service, he returned to New Jersey where he successfully ran his family’s paper company and went on to lead and develop numerous other business ventures. Among these was the Toyota dealership in Joliet, where his entrepreneurial spirit and leadership left a lasting mark.
A lifelong passion for aviation began early and became one of the defining pursuits of his life. He became an accomplished pilot and dedicated flight instructor, eventually earning the prestigious Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award— the Federal Aviation Administration’s highest honor, recognizing more than 50 years of safe flying, clean records, and a commitment to instructing others. He found great joy in the skies and operated a charter service, sharing his love of flight with many.
Never one to stop learning, he embarked on a new path later in life by pursuing a legal career. He earned his Juris Doctor from The John Marshall Law School in Chicago, where he met his future wife and partner, Lea Drell. Together, they built not only a life but a respected law practice, Stuhr & Drell, in Joliet. Working side by side, they served their community with integrity and compassion and were honored by the State of Illinois for their dedication to pro bono work. He was, by all accounts, a natural attorney: sharp, articulate, and deeply committed to justice.
He was also a proud member of the Joliet Rotary Club and a man of broad interests and curiosity. Well-traveled and worldly, he embraced life’s experiences fully. In quieter moments, he enjoyed his hobby of model trains, amassing an impressive collection. He enjoyed attending train trade shows with his stepson, Michael, and earning the nickname “Papa Choo-Choo” by his grandchildren.
He will be remembered as a man of many talents, unwavering determination, and a generous spirit. His life was marked by reinvention, achievement, and a deep appreciation for both work and family.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Lea Drell; his son, George M. (Paulita Harness) Stuhr, II; step- children, Sydney Reiner, Michael (Kimberly) Drell, and Murray Drell; and his eight adoring grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers.
A Memorial Visitation for George McCarter Stuhr will be Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Road, Joliet. Family will have a private inurnment at Memorial Park Cemetery in Skokie, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of donor’s choice.
For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.com, where you may share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
