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Gregory John Schimmel (69) of Park Ridge, was born October 30,1952 in Chicago, and passed into the arms of his Savior on November 26, 2021. Greg is survived by his wife of 47 years, Judy (Hoffman), and his children Michael (Meredith) Schimmel, Stephen (Emilie) Schimmel, and Elizabeth (Neil) Stanoev.  Grandchildren loved dearly are Carter, Benjamin, Reese, Samuel, Joanna, Adelyn, and Grayson. He leaves behind his parents Richard and Susan Schimmel, and siblings Daniel (Anne) Schimmel, Debbie Starr, John (Barb) Schimmel, Janice Schimmel.

Greg was such a genuine person. All who knew him considered him to be selfless, thoughtful, kind to everyone and respected; a man of character. Greg was proud of his long and varied career in the insurance industry.  He began at Allstate as a multi-level field adjuster.  Because he was a "people person" and had a zeal for learning and teaching he rose from adjuster to trainer at Tech Cor/Allstate to leadership positions as a Branch Manager, Midwest Regional Manager and Corporate Trainer for Insurance Auto Auctions.  He later returned to Allstate where he was an advocate for customers as well as mentoring and training new adjusters for the National Catastrophe Center.

He briefly left Allstate for HSG/Code Blue where he was a Senior National Account Coordinator and then Vice President of Claims for Mad Sky Managed Repair Program.

Greg reconnected with Allstate as a retiree and shared his vast experience and talents while continuing to serve customers, mentor others and befriend many within his field.

Relationships were his priority. He really saw people and looked at the best part of what people offer. He found value in others and showed he cared. He inspired people and took his time to help and encourage others. He gave of himself and was always ready and willing to lend a helping hand. He kept his word and when he said he was going to do something, he delivered.

He loved his wife, his family, the extended family, and those that weren't technically family, but made to feel like they were. He included and valued others, and he shared his passions freely, by getting involved in a variety of social groups and activities to keep building relationships.

Greg's varied interests included music, both as an avid concert-goer and life-long drummer. He enjoyed boating and water skiing, fishing and motorcycling. He was very  handy, always fixing cars and helping with house projects for friends and loved ones. He participated in bible study, the South Park Church worship band, and his Iron Men group for many years. These were all important to him, but even more so were the people who shared those activities with him, and his love for the Lord. He knew how to rally around others, and he showed up with tremendous loyalty. His legacy of seeing others through his beautiful lens of friendship and enjoyment will never be forgotten.

Greg was the recipient of a liver transplant eleven years ago that changed the trajectory of his life and gave him a "second chance" as he said. He was forever grateful for every day he was gifted after the transplant. Donations can be made in his honor to: Gift of Hope: Organ and Tissue Donation.

A visitation will be held at Nelson Funeral Home, 820 W Talcott Rd, Park Ridge, IL 60068 on December 10 th from 3:00-8:00 pm.  A celebration of life will be held December 11 th , at 10:00 am, at South Park Church 1330 Courtland Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068.  Private family interment to follow the service.