Dr. George John Katsantonis

Funeral Service: 11:30 a.m., Monday, January 9, 2023

Location: Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church

Interment: Following the Service

Location: Peninsula Memorial Park

George John Katsantonis, 92, was born in Megalopolis, Greece. After World War II during his teen years, George was determined to seek new opportunities. His relentless drive and motivation led him to Italy, where he embraced the language and culture while pursuing his studies at Facolta' Di Medicina Veterinaria at the University of Perugia and received his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. He returned to Megalopolis, Greece on his summer breaks and offered his talents to the community, but his goal was to start a new life in America. In 1959, he came to America to achieve his dream. As fate would have it, his childhood sweetheart Perri was close by. He tracked her down and they were soon married and started their happy life together in Cleveland, Ohio. George and Perri would be the first to tell you, those were their golden years. In Cleveland, they fostered strong relationships with other Greek immigrant families who served as their extended family in this new country. George worked hard supporting his wife and three daughters by working at a veterinary clinic and simultaneously at the United States Department of Agriculture. Ten years later, George and Perri and their daughters made the move to Virginia where he was afforded a great opportunity by the United States Department of Agriculture to direct operations in Smithfield, Virginia, which he continued until retirement. His tenacity and strong work ethic were defining characteristics and a big part of the legacy he left to the entire family. The role that best defined him was fatherhood and his zealous love and devotion to his family.

George had a tremendous love of life and lived life to its fullest. George loved to read, he had a great sense of humor, and his home was filled with music and laughter. He loved to travel the world with his family, but the most beloved place that he always returned to was his homeland, Greece. In their retirement, George and Perri spent their extended summers in Loutraki, where George indulged his passion for swimming in the Mediterranean Sea- another trait passed on to his family. His indomitable spirit and joie de vivre will leave an indelible imprint on his family, community and those who came to know him well.

Dr. George Katsantonis was preceded in death by his wife Perri, and survived by his daughters, Caroline, Vivian and Joanne; his sons-in-law, Tony, Chris and Mike; and his grandchildren, Fares George, Eleina, Nathan and Nikki.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, January 9, 2023 at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church by Rev. George Chioros, 60 Traverse Road, Newport News, VA 23606. Interment will follow at Peninsula Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Church or to the National Kidney Foundation. Arrangements are by Weymouth Funeral Home.