George Stappas

Our hearts are broken as we announce the passing of George, a loving father, husband, son, brother, and uncle. Born on August 26, 1972 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, George was blessed to be raised by his loving parents, James and Anna. He spent part of his life growing up in Sykea, Greece, where he loved vacationing.

George was a hard working person and a jack of all trades, and he would always make himself available to help with repairs and household maintenance for family and friends. From studying mechanics and car repair, working as a hairstylist, to manning the fryers at various family diners, George could do it all. You could also see George serving up donairs at the Greek Fest or playing on stage with the band. Later in life he settled into apartment management, where he took pride in taking care of his properties.

George was a sensitive soul, who cared about others and had a tremendous sense of humour, full of wit and one liners. Music played a big part in George’s life. He was a gifted guitar player but could also instinctively play keyboards, violin or any other random instrument without any traditional training. He was a natural talent. If it could make music, George would play it, and always with a smile.

George loved his wife Zaharenia (Renia) very much, who he affectionately called Shmoops, based on the famous Seinfeld episode. In addition to their trips to Greece together, George and Renia have fond memories of family barbecues, going to the movies and sharing each other's hobbies. While Renia enjoyed teaching George how to be computer savvy, George tried to teach Renia how to swim. He encouraged her to be brave and learn to drive, which Renia vows to do someday. She will always remember George playing her favorite songs from the Cranberries and Serena Rhyder on the guitar, and the Titanic theme song on the penny flute, just for her.

George had a close bond with his son Jimmy. With George on guitar and Jimmy on the bouzouki or baglama, the house would fill with Greek music or rock and roll. The boys enjoyed working in the garage together as well as going fishing and foraging for mushrooms on the trail. Jimmy will always have fond memories of conversations with his dad about religion and the world around him.

George is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 20 years, Zaharenia, son Jimmy, parents James and Anna. His two brothers John (Corissa) and Nick (Bessie) meant the world to him, and both were an integral part of his life. He was a proud uncle to Dimitri (Tatiana), Anna, James, Niko, Fotis and Dina, and a Godfather to Olivia. George was also loved by his aunts, uncles and cousins.

Our family would like to extend our gratitude to the medical team in Halifax, but especially the Glenn Hospital team in Montreal, which includes the departments of Hepatology, Nephrology and Infectious Disease, with special thanks to the Hepatology surgical team, led by Dr. Peter Mitrakos and Dr. Jeff Barkin. To all the nurses and supporting staff on floor C10, we thank you so much for taking care of George. You went above and beyond and we are extremely thankful for all your hard work and dedication.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. George Greek Orthodox Church.

Visitation will be held Monday, March 27th from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax.

Funeral Service will be held 1:00 pm Tuesday, March 28th at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 1146 Purcell's Cove Rd. Interment to follow at Fairview Lawn Cemetery.

To leave an online message of condolence for George’s family please visit www.jasnowfuneralhome.com