Obituaries

Passed away at St. Joseph’s hospital in Elgin, Illinois on June 6, 2026, unexpectedly.

George is survived by his parents Elie and Kathy Ghawi; sister and brother-in-law (Katie Ghawi Cornetto and Don Foster); daughter (Sela Rose); niece (Sofia Kellyn) and many cousins, aunts, uncles, and cherished friends.

George was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on November 15, 1976, where he lived, attended elementary school and played soccer – all the time. He was an excellent soccer player who played on many travel teams and qualified to play on the olympic development soccer team for his age division. In 1984, he moved south, first to Slidell Louisiana, then to Marietta, Georgia with his family. He graduated from George Walton Comprehensive High School in 1995. He went on to earn a degree from Waubonsee College, after moving back up north to Illinois in 1997. He obtained Bachelors of Arts and Science from National Louis University. George was a lifelong soccer referee and officiated hundreds of soccer matches during his lifetime. He watched thousands more soccer matches in person and on TV. But even more important to George was when his daughter Sela Rose was born on December 9, 2006. He raised her with his whole heart and lives on through her. Most notably, he spent the last few years caring tirelessly for his mom and dad who are now in agony over the loss of their only son. He was treasured and beloved by his family and his dog. By far, one of George’s saddest days was May 27, 2026, when he had to say goodbye to Nanoke, his beautiful Siberian Husky, who served as George’s salvation over the past 16 years. George will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. A memorial service will be planned in the coming months.