George Ray Stillahn

George Ray Stillahn, 71, of Omaha, passed away surrounded by the love of his life, his wife Lisa leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and the unmistakable mark of a man who did things his own way. George was born on February 6, 1955, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Ray and Morine Stillahn. He was preceded in death by his father and is survived by his wife, mother, his sisters Rhonda Lagemann and Debra (Dave) Harter, and many nieces and nephews who adored his humor and larger-than-life presence.

He graduated Bryan High School in 1973 and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.  He completed training at Camp Pendleton and stationed at the Marine Base in Okinawa, Japan. While enlisted in the Marines he received the Rifle Sharpshooter Badge, National Service Defense Medal and awarded two Good Conduct Medals. He was honorably discharged and returned to Omaha.

On October 13, 1979, George married the love of his life, Lisa (Kurmel) Stillahn, after a spirited courtship that took them all over South Omaha-including the legendary moment when Lisa made him walk home after a lovers' spat. Their adventures took them from the familiar streets of Omaha to the cold tundra of North Dakota, where they developed a shared appreciation for hockey and built a life full of laughter, loyalty, and unforgettable stories.

A devoted dog lover, George welcomed many four-legged companions across the years: E Buzz Miller, Boscoe, Annie, Brandi, and Isabelle-all waiting for him now at the rainbow bridge. His loyal black lab Shade remained faithfully by his side until the end and will continue to watch over Lisa in the days ahead.

George lived life with enthusiasm and a spark that never dimmed. He loved dirt track racing, the NHRA drag races including a few trips to Topeka, and was a full-throttle NASCAR fan, with memorable trips to Phoenix and Atlanta. He enjoyed Indy car races and the NASCAR truck series at Kansas City Speedway. He was also a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan through the years and his favorite quarterback was Dan Marino of the Miami Dolphins. He and Lisa spent several years as proud houseboat owners-highlighted by a memorable trip to Arkansas with friends. One of his prized possessions was his beloved '55 T-Bird, which he owned for several years and talked about long after it left the garage.

He was also a dedicated viewer-some might say addict-of the Mecum Auto Auction, dreaming of buying the "coolest" cars and building a massive garage with his future lottery winnings. Whether or not the lottery cooperated, the dream never left him.

Travel was woven throughout George's life. He cherished visits with family in Lubbock, Texas, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and he loved traveling with family and friends to cheer on the Huskers at games across the country starting with games at the Lincoln Memorial Stadium, Notre Dame, the Dr Pepper Bowl in San Antonio, the Washington game in Seattle, and the unforgettable Rose Bowl game and parade in Pasadena.

A self-proclaimed expert in tequila and whiskey, George was a regular at Margarita's Mexican Restaurant and had an especially deep love for the blues. He and Lisa spent countless nights attending local shows, concerts, and festivals-dancing, meeting the artists, and steadily building a vast blues music collection that became the soundtrack of their life together. Their song, the one that always brought them back to each other, was "Pride and Joy" by Stevie Ray Vaughan.

George was fluent in sarcasm and bullshitting, delivering humor with perfect timing and a twinkle in his eye.

George lived boldly, loved deeply, and laughed loudly. His presence filled every room, every gathering, every moment. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, stories that will be told for years, and a circle of family and friends who will miss him more than words can express.

Donations may be made in George's memory to the Nebraska Humane Society or Omaha Open Door Mission, his favorite charities.

A life celebration party is planned for Saturday April 25, 2026 from 12-3 pm at the South Omaha Eagles Club #154, 6607 Sunshine Dr, Omaha, NE 68107.

Bring your memories and smiles and join the festivities.