George J Galla

George John Galla, also known as Bud, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on October 25, 2023, at the age of 82 in Lake Villa, Illinois. Bud was born on February 2, 1941, in Chicago, Illinois. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a cherished grandfather. George (Bud) was known for his kind and generous nature, magnetic personality, warm smile, and infectious laugh. He was a role model and hero to his family, always providing support and guidance. He was a loyal and dedicated family man, and his love for his wife of 58 years, LaVerne, was unwavering. George (Bud) is survived by his loving wife LaVerne. He is also survived by his daughters: Dawn (Bob) DiLullo , Denise (Bob) Conlon , and Donna (Brian) Lovitsch. Bud was a proud grandfather to Katy and Kyle Conlon, Brooke and Brett DiLullo, and Sidney and Nicholas Lovitsch. He is also survived by his sister, Gayle (Clarence) Dickey, and his cousins, Mike (Karen) Weringa and Don (Sandy) Mitidiero. George (Bud) had nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. George (Bud) received his education at Mendel Catholic High School and went on to graduate from the University of Illinois with a degree in education. While in college, he played baseball. His love and passion for the game started as early as little league and continued throughout his life. George’s (Bud’s) career as a teacher and coach began in 1964 at Niles Township, District #219. He spent the majority of his career at Niles West High School. He was a beloved teacher and head baseball coach, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many students and players. In 1998, he was inducted into the Illinois High School Baseball Hall of Fame. He was also the golf coach at Niles West and retired in 1999 after 34 years of dedicated service. George (Bud) was a devoted Catholic and is currently a parishioner at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Lake Villa. He was also a former member of St. Emily's Parish in Mt. Prospect. In his free time, George (Bud) loved being the number one fan of his grandchildren attending their activities and spending quality time with them. George (Bud) and LaVerne had a very active social life and enjoyed spending time with great friends. He had a knack for fixing things and loved golfing, fishing, boating, traveling and soaking up the Florida sun. A gathering to celebrate George's (Bud's) life will be held from 4-8 pm on Monday, October 30th, at Ringa Funeral Home 122 South Milwaukee Ave, Lake Villa, Illinois 60046. A funeral mass will take place on Tuesday, October 31st, at 10:30 am at Prince of Peace Catholic Church 135 South Milwaukee Ave, Lake Villa, Illinois 60046. Please meet directly at church. Cremation will follow privately. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity in honor of George (Bud). George (Bud) walked into many lives and left his footprints on their hearts.

George J Galla

February 2, 1941 - October 25, 2023

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