George P Gamvroulas

George Peter Gamvroulas passed away peacefully, yet unexpectedly on February 23, 2025 in Dubuque, Iowa. While his physical heart had been ailing for many years, his metaphorical heart is how he will be remembered.

George was born on March 9, 1967 to Peter and Tula Gamvroulas in Salt Lake City. George was the youngest of three brothers, growing up in a home washed over in love, faith, hard work, and family. In his youth, George’s identity was grounded in his Greek American experience. The son of an immigrant, George appreciated all that his father sacrificed by leaving his home country to build a better life for his eventual family. George was an altar boy, attended Greek School, loved Greek dance, and his family traditions. George grew tall because his roots ran deep and he often reminisced about his formative years. He proudly graduated from Highland High School in 1985.

Professionally, George was accomplished and respected. He began his law enforcement career as a security guard with Salt Lake County, then was hired by the Sheriff’s Department where he worked in the jail for over twenty-four years, eventually retiring at the rank of sergeant.

While George had an intimidating physical presence, and always loved to play the “tough guy,” he was an advocate for the dignity of the prisoner. Though never to be taken advantage of, George knew the people he encountered were in front of him because they were having the worst day of their lives. George was a compassionate giant whose work shaped him and left him with his best memories and his most haunting.

While working in the jail, he would meet Lainey who was working as a nurse. They later married, and together they had a son, Christopher who was George’s greatest accomplishment and highest source of pride. His best self was renewed in his role as a father. George, Lainey, and Christopher eventually moved back to Dubuque, Iowa to reconnect with Lainey’s roots.

The other sources of joy for George defined his dual personality. He enjoyed his truck because it made him look even bigger, and through the years, he helped countless people move into countless places. He also loved his motorcycle, where he could be alone in his thoughts. George lived much of his life inside of himself. His bike was the physical connection to his solitary self.

George was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Tula Gamvroulas. He is survived by his wife Lainey, son, Christopher, brothers Steve (Maria), Chris (Suzanne) and many nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

His viewing will be held at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary in Millcreek on Sunday, March 2, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The Trisagion Service will be prayed at 6:00 pm

Funeral Services will take place at George’s beloved Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Salt Lake City on Monday, March 3, 2025 at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held for George in Dubuque before he returns home to Salt Lake City.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider making a donation to a charity of your choice in George’s memory.

Georgie, you have found peace and an eternity in God’s love. You will be missed.

AIONIA H MNHMH * MAY HIS MEMORY BE ETERNAL