George Pontarelli, 96, of Chicago passed away on July 21, 2026. Beloved husband for 71 wonderful years to the late Jean, nee McKee. Adored father of George “Mickey” (Sue), Bob (Richard) and Peggy. Loving grandfather of Mike and Scott. Dear son of the late Anthony “Tenee” and Gilda, brother of the late Michael E. (Patty). George will be missed by scores of friends and family.

He was a founding partner of Anthony Pontarelli & Sons and then, later, sole owner of Baywood Construction, together spending over six decades overseeing the construction of miles of Chicago tunnels and underground sanitation.

He was beloved by his employees, both as a colleague and a friend and maintained many of those relationships long after retirement.

He cherished the sanctuary of the beautiful lake house that he built with his beloved wife Jean (whom he lovingly referred to as “blondie”) There they enjoyed countless years with friends and family celebrating life‘s happiest moments.

George was larger than life, a gregarious charmer, full of laughter, jokes and good will. He was a scoutmaster for his then young sons, an avid golfer with his buddys and the best friend one could wish for. He was generous to a fault and a fierce gin rummy player who quietly relished his frequent wins.

He was a thinker and a planner but equally devoted to feeding chipmunks, restoring old cars, cheering his beloved Green Bay Packers and spending time with his grandsons whom he treasured.

He loved Turner Classic Movies, Portillo beef, snicker bars, Tufano’s eggplant parmesan, not to mention the occasional Jack Daniels.

He was a long-time member of Knights of Columbus.

Friday, July 24th visitation from 4-7pm at Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home. Saturday, July 25th funeral 9:30am from the funeral home to Queen of All Saints Basilica for a Mass at 10am. Private interment. Memorial donations in George’s name can be made to his favorite charity, Boys Town, PO Box 8000, Boys Town, NE 68010 or to Chicago Police Chaplins Ministry, 1140 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60607.