George Bassounas was born on January 1, 1925, to John Bassounas and Vasiliki Tsiantis Bassounas in the village of Megalo Peristeri in Epiros.
In his early 30’s he emigrated to the United States where he met his wife Marigo Pantzikas. Working as a restaurateur, he raised a family and created a good name in the Philadelphia Greek community.
In spite of his many hardships, including the early death of his wife, his smile never faded. With his love of life, he gave people the gift of laughter and joy everywhere he went.
Until the age of 88, he traveled between America and Greece, visiting his many relatives and friends, including his brothers Alex and Pavlo, and sister Niki. Always looking to encounter new experiences, in addition to his travels in America and Greece, he traveled to many places in Europe, Russia, Turkey, and Japan.
What he cherished most, though, was his family, his son John and wife Hiromi, his daughter Bessie and husband Jim, and his daughter Penny and long-time companion Martin. What especially gave him joy, though, was his five grandchildren: Maria, Andreas, Cleoniki, Ioanna, and Georgie. Georgie was the last of his grandchildren but also his namesake.
He was with all his children and all his grandchildren just before he passed. The many children who met him throughout his life considered him their own Pappou. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.
The viewing is set for Thursday, April 14 at 10:00 am at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church at 229 Powell Lane, Upper Darby, PA 19082. The funeral service is to start at 11:00 am. Interment at Fernwood cemetery.