In Memoriam: George J. Tripolitis

George J. Tripolitis, 78, passed away June 25, 2013, in his Spring Township residence. He was the husband of Shirley E. (Staggers) Tripolitis, whom he wed 52 years ago on June 25, 1961.

Born in Kos, Greece, he was a son of the late John and Conto (Zervanos) Tripolitis.

He was a graduate of Hippocrates Gymnasium, Kos, Greece, and attended The University of Salonica, Greece, before emigrating to the United States.

George was a maître d' and restaurant manager for over 35 years at Stokesay Castle, Reading. He worked part time at The Riveredge Restaurant, Reading, following his retirement.

He was a member of SS Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, Reading, where he was a former church council member and remained an active volunteer. Recently, he was awarded the lifetime service award for his dedicated years of service to his church. He was also a member of the Order of AHEPA.

George was an avid walker and enjoyed watching soccer, football and hockey. His pride and joy was his family and he loved spending time with them.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his three children: John G., husband of Karen Tripolitis, Douglassville; Linda M. Tripolitis-Baker, King of Prussia; and Georgia T., wife of Jeffrey Ruser, Wayne. There is one sister, Demetria "Metsa" Manuel, Lancaster; and four grandchildren: Lauren T. Tripolitis, Kristen T. Tripolitis, Annina Baker and Marlena Ruser.

George was predeceased by four siblings, Damianos Tripolitis, Thalia Andreadis, Eleni Georgopoulos and Maria Gambrellis.

Services will be Friday at 11 a.m. in SS Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 1001 E. Wyomissing Blvd., Reading, PA 19611. A viewing will be held 10 to 11 a.m. in the church. Burial will be in Charles Evans Cemetery.

Contributions may be made to: SS Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church at the address above.

Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., West Reading is in charge of arrangements Online condolences may be recorded at www.kuhnfuneralhome.com.