George Howard Haxel, Jr.
George Howard Haxel, Jr., 90, of Quincy, passed away Friday, December 25, 2020 at home surrounded by loving family.
George was born January 2, 1930, in Quincy, a son of George Frederick and Jetta Dove Howard Haxel.
He was raised in Columbus, Illinois during his youth before returning to Quincy to attend Quincy Senior High School, graduating in 1948.
On November 9, 1957, George married Ruth Clara Niehaus at St. John Catholic Church in Quincy. They were married 63 years, raising a family of seven children.
George began his career at Electric Wheel but quickly exhibited his lifelong entrepreneurial drive by opening his first business, Haxel Cabinet Company, a custom cabinet making shop located at 3501 State Street. After many years in the cabinet making business, he simultaneously embarked on a new venture selling recreational travel trailers which led to him working in partnership with Ruth to open their own dealership, Cross Country Trailer Center, which is still in business today. George expanded further with the opening of Motor Valet Car Wash on an adjoining lot which was in operation from 1975 until 2013. His interest in development continued with the establishment of Sunrise Hill subdivision on east State Street and the building and ongoing management of several commercial rental properties.
George was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed deer and mushroom hunting, camping, and the mountains. After high school, he played baseball on various travel league teams in Illinois and Missouri. He later coached little league teams and was a passionate and enduring Cubs fan. George enjoyed exploring the U.S. with Ruth in their RV which afforded them the opportunity to experience the country up close and personal. George’s fond memories of his childhood in Columbus led to hobbies that included collecting antique farm memorabilia and restoring antique phones. Happiest when active, he enjoyed working outside and, at the age of 90, he could still be found driving a tractor, sustaining his timberland in Lima, and assisting with business affairs.
In addition to his wife Ruth, survivors include his son, Phil (Cheryl Wiewel) Haxel of Quincy; daughters, Monica Haxel of Chicago, IL, Cindy (Tom) Stupavsky of Quincy, Pam (George) Dreyer of Quincy, Patti (Roger) Walsh of Elmhurst, IL, Melinda (Paul) Niemann of St. Charles, MO; 14 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sister, Wilma “Carlene” Taylor of Quincy; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents; newborn son, Jeffrey George Haxel; son Frank (Cindy Vancil) Haxel; sister, Helen Kasparie; brothers-in-law, Garner Kasparie and Kenneth Eugene Taylor; and many friends.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private funeral will be held at Duker and Haugh Funeral Home followed by interment in Calvary Cemetery in Quincy, Illinois. In his memory, George asked that friends and family consider a gift to a favorite charity benefiting children, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Quincy Notre Dame High School.
George (& Ruth) quickly became our grandparents away from home when we moved to Quincy. We were blessed to have them as neighbors and friends; fondly referring to them as Grandpa George and Grandma Ruth. We enjoyed meeting at the fence for an afternoon chat and how much they adored our daughter. Many prayers, May you find comfort in your memories.
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your Dad. We are praying for you & your family Monica. May he Rest In Peace & perpetual light be upon him.
We are sending the family love and prayers.
My sincerest sympathies to everyone touched by George’s love. He led a remarkable life and left a beautiful legacy.
Monica and family, we are so sorry for your loss. I’ve enjoyed hearing great stories about Monica’s Dad and his spirit for the holidays and what a wonderful life he provided for his family. In our thoughts and prayers. Our love Brian and Laura
Monica and family— I know your Dad raised a sweet, genuine, devoted and hardworking daughter! For that, I’m sure he was an amazing man and so proud of you. I’m so sad to hear of your fathers passing and will continue to pray for you and your family. Sending lots of love and thoughts to you and your family. God be with all of you and may he rest peacefully in heaven. Love, Arlene
Monica, so sorry for your loss. May his memory be eternal!
I enjoyed great family parties at Uncle George and Aunt Ruth’s home with my cousins. His pool table was a hit with the adults. He enjoyed life and his family. I know that he will be missed by many.
Thinking of you and your family and sending heartfelt condolences to you all.
Loved every minute hanging around George and Ruth. Lots of great times. Cub fan too!
I’m so very sorry to hear about the passing of your Dad. Praying for you during this difficult time. With heartfelt condolences.
Dear Monica & family, our deepest condolences to all you. May the memories of your father bring you comfort. May his memory be eternal. With sympathy, Roux & Betsy