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Fallen Heroes Details



In Memory Of
George Kurelic
Illinois State Police, IL
End of watch: 1997-10-30
Aircraft: Eurocopter AS350
Pilot George Kurelic died while conducting flight training at Frankfort Airport at around 0345 hours. The aircraft tipped, rolled over and burst into flames. Kurelic, a civilian, had contracts with both the State of Illinois and the Chicago Police Department. Also killed was Trooper Erin Hehl, 34.

Thoughts and Memories of George Kurelic

Ten years later I don’t know why but I decided to Google my Dad's name and this came up. I miss you so much Dad! Now that I am older I feel like we could have had an even greater connection than we had before. It's so hard to believe it's been so long because I will remember that day like it was yesterday for the rest of my life! The years we had will live on in my heart forever. I hope to make you proud! I love you!
Kriston Kurelic
2007-04-15
What a family I have, I think of my brother often so on days when something happens in my life I think of him. I Googled his name today and see my family has done the same. I wonder how my life would be different if he were still here. I see my own children growing up, and I think what they have missed in not knowing him. I laugh when I think of him, which comforts me. He is missed so much even 10 years later. I miss him! What a treat to be able to express my feeling again! George you will always be our HERO!
Maryalice Bennewate
2007-08-23
My Uncle George was a wonderful man and an awesome example of how to be a great human being. He died doing the one thing he loved the most, flying. He is so missed every day and will continue to be so for the rest of time. In my heart, he is my hero.
Lisa (Calarco) Adamso
2006-02-01
George was and will be my best friend forever! We grew up together and had many great times. George was my best man at my wedding and I was his. George was my daughter Lisa Marie's Godfather and I am his Daughter Kriston's. I will always remember the days we spent together and I will never forget the times we had!

George lived his life the way we all should, everyday to its fullest without regret and with a passion for life!
Nick Calarco
2006-10-17
No mater how long it's been since the last time I spent time with my brother-in-law, it will always be the same feeling as the first time. I have so many vivid memories of family, friends, love, and a strong sense of loyalty and commitment to not only his family but to his dedication to being the best that he could be. He somehow always made you think about doing more, being better, and always, always, helping people along the way. We talked about respect, and he told me, you don't just get respect, you have to earn respect. I miss him, but I know he's with me, and I'm grateful for having that.
Donna M. Villa
2008-09-24
I find myself in the same boat as Kristen, ten years later, googling Uncle George's name. When we were little, we were so excited to see Uncle George in his helicopter. Every time one flew over our house, we would have and scream "Hi Uncle George!". Now, ten years later I have two daughters of my own, and I am teaching them the same thing. I love you Uncle George, and I miss you everyday.
Nicole Kleidon (Soria)
2007-08-07