George Ilich

George Ilich (Radevski), 86, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025. Born October 6, 1938, in Dragosh, Yugoslavia, George – a proud Macedonian – lived a vibrant life marked by his hard work, his passion, and his energetic personality. He was preceded in death by his father, Trendo Ilich (Radevski); mother, Fanka Tashkovski; stepmother, Wanda Ilich; brothers, Angelo and Stefo; sister, Dafina; nephew Chris, and special uncle/Aunt, Bogoja and Blaguna. George is survived by his sister, Toni Ilich; daughters, Debbie (Keith) Waddle and Tami (Trent) Iguchi; son, Steve (Jennifer) Ilich; grandchildren, Aaron (Sarah) Murray, Annie (Chris) Short, Tabetha (Frank) Wright, Treston Iguchi, Cameron (Brittany) Ilich, Kevin (Andrea) Ilich, and Carter (Ashlee) Ilich; mother to his children, Ginger Haddix; and 10 great-grandchildren. At age 13 in the early 1950’s, George and his cousin Cvetko bravely escaped Communist Yugoslavia (Macedonia). After 9 months in a refugee camp in Lavrio, Greece, he boarded a ship for the journey to America via Genoa, Italy. He reunited with his father at Ellis Island. He built a new life in Columbus, Ohio, married, and raised a family he cherished. In the early 1970’s he found his calling, owning and training thoroughbred racehorses alongside his father. He enjoyed a successful 30+ year career, working seven days a week – never taking a vacation. Later, he became a driver for Buckeye Automotive Group for 20+ years. In George fashion – with more energy than he knew what to do with – he began running marathons in his late 60s, completing his last full marathon at age 80. He treasured his two trips to Shepparton, Australia – visiting his large Macedonian family. George was a fiery sports enthusiast. He intensely followed the Buckeyes, Columbus Crew, Cincinnati, and Cleveland teams. Never meeting a stranger, George’s charisma (and his creative use of colorful language) endeared him to all. He was a devoted Father and Grandfather. Special thanks to his daughter Debbie for her tender caregiving over the last four years, as well as Carriage Court Memory Care and Mount Carmel Hospice. Calling hours will be held from 2pm to 4pm with Memorial to follow on Sunday July 27, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3393 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123. George’s legacy of courage, love, and zest for life will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.