George was born in October of 1933, in Kozani, Greece. He was a survivor of Nazi occupation, and later served his country in the Greek Army. George immigrated from Kozani, Greece in September 1952 at the age of 19. By himself he boarded the Nea Ellas in Pireas, Greece and arrived to Ellis Island 17 days later. From New York, George made his way to Chicago where he learned to speak English and attended Roosevelt University. A few years later George followed family to Miami where he continued his studies at Miami University and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering.

George met his wife, Alexandra while he was on a visit to New Jersey. Alexandra had recently arrived to the United States and was working on the Wildwood boardwalk at an uncle’s restaurant. George and Alexandra’s courtship was short, they married after three dates. Together, they settled in Florida, where George’s career flourished. As Chief Civil Engineer, he led more than 100 employees and oversaw major construction projects, specializing in bridge building.

After more than 20 years in engineering, with projects spanning Florida and California, George decided it was time for a new chapter. While he had enjoyed the challenge of engineering, he found himself drawn to a different kind of work, one centered on people rather than projects. He believed owning a coffee shop would better suit his outgoing nature and love of hard work.

In 1968, George found an aged coffee shop in Cape May. With vision and determination, he transformed it, rebuilding and re-opening the restaurant in 1980 and naming it George’s Place. Together, George and Alexandra built not only a successful business but also a welcoming gathering place that became a beloved Cape May fixture. They proudly operated George’s Place for more than 34 years. Today, the restaurant continues to serve the community under the same name, carrying forward George’s legacy of hospitality and dedication.

George is survived by his son Maki; his daughters, Fay and her husband David, and Christina and her husband Michael; and his four grandchildren Michael, George, Julianna and Michael. He is also survived by his sisters, Polexeni and Vasiliki, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Alexandra and his sister, Ekaterini.