Obituary of George A. Hallis

George A. Hallis Was born August 22, 1929 in Tacoma and died October 14, 2007 at home surrounded by loved ones. His many passions in life were being with family and friends, fishing, boating, skiing, and supporting his community with his time, talents, and humor. He was a graduate of Lincoln High School, class of 1947 and attended Western Washington College then the College of Puget Sound. On September 8, 1957, he wed Sally Jane Winnie and cherished their 50 years of marriage with love, laughter, dance, and devotion. He successfully owned and operated Hallis Produce until his retirement in May of 1993. George was well respected by his business associates and employees. George was a lifetime member of the Tacoma Elks, the Order of Ahepa, and St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. He served the church in many capacities from president of the parish counsel, to kitchen crew for the annual Greek Festival, to a staff member known as the "milkshake man" for Camp Agape, a northwest camp for families with children stricken with cancer. He shared his fishing passion and skills with family and friends. He was an avid boater and skier who enjoyed teaching and experiencing these activities with others. For many years, he coached little league for his three children and then enjoyed watching his seven grandchildren participate in their activities. George will be remembered for his compassion for life, sense of humor, gentle manner, and loving/giving heart. He was a generous, devoted, kind, patient, and considerate husband, father, grandfather, godfather, uncle, nephew, and friend who will be missed dearly. He was preceded in death by his father, Michael, his mother, Mary, and his sister, Gloria. He is survived by his wife, Sally, sons Michael (Karen), Andrew (Terri), daughter, Gina (Bruce) and grandchildren, Julia, Matthew, Christopher, Carli, Nicole, Jacob, and Alexandra and also by his aunt, godchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws. Sincere gratitude goes to family, friends, and Franciscan Hospice for everyone's incredible care, support, guidance, and comfort. In his memory, donations may be made to: Franciscan Hospice at P.O. Box 1502, Tacoma 98401-1502, or Camp Agape at P.O. Box 65504, University Place 98464, or St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church "building fund" at 1523 S. Yakima, Tacoma 98405. The Trisagion Service will be Thursday, October 18th, 7:00 p.m. at Piper-Morley-Mellinger. The funeral service is Friday, October 19th, 1:00 p.m. at ST. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. The Makraria (luncheon) will begin 3:00 p.m. at the church following the funeral service and burial at the cemetery.