SPRINGFIELD, IL - George Francis Fitchett, 89, of Springfield, passed away on Monday, March 7, 2016 at St. John's Hospice.

George was born on December 12, 1926 in Lexington, MO the son of William Albert and Ina Kessinger Fitchett.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during WWII. He met Mary Ann at the University of Central Missouri where they both graduated in 1952 and they married August 10, 1952. He managed stores for Western Auto for 35 years retiring in 1990 and later worked for 15 years at Walmart. He was a member of Jerome United Methodist Church and a lifetime member of the VFW. He enjoyed making people laugh.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Fitchett of Springfield; one son, Gregg (fiancAC.e, Sue Sanchez) Fitchett; grandchildren, Katie and Zachary Fitchett and Abigail (Jason) Millin; nieces and nephews, Mike and Linda Becker, Tim and Patty Sullivan and Mark and Lynn Becker and Nelda Becker and their children.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 Noon on Monday, March 14, 2016 at Jerome United Methodist Church with Reverend Paul Black officiating. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery where the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County will conduct honors.

Memorial contributions may be made to Jerome United Methodist Church.

Ellinger-Kunz & Park Funeral Home, 530 N. 5th St., Springfield, IL 627020 is in charge of arrangements.