George Zissis

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband,

father, and grandfather, George Zissis, who left us peacefully on January 31, 2026, at the

age of 90. Born in Sparta, Greece on July 12, 1935, to his late parents Ioanna and

Nikolaos Zissis, he carried the strength and spirit of his homeland throughout his

remarkable life.

For 58 years, he shared an extraordinary love with his devoted wife Mary, a bond that stood

as a testament to the depth of his capacity for devotion and partnership. She was truly

the love of his life, and their marriage was a beautiful example of what it means to walk

through life hand in hand.

A proud man in the finest sense, he took immense pride in his family, not in

boastfulness, but in the quiet, steadfast way he showed up for those he loved. His pride

was born of dedication, of sacrifice, of the countless ways he built a life that honored his

values and protected those who mattered most to him.

George was the devoted father of Nikki (Zissis) Giannaras, wife of George and Joanna

(Zissis) Huisman, wife of David. His devotion extended with equal measure to his four

grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply and who brought immeasurable joy to his

life: Georgia & Christopher Giannaras and Jack & Nicholas Huisman. George was

predeceased by his sister, Polixeni and brothers Panagioti and Mihali.

In 1960, at the age of 25, George left his beloved Sparta for America, arriving in Endicott,

NY, where he was welcomed by his cherished cousins, family who were not merely

relatives, but brothers and sisters of his heart. With characteristic determination, he

pursued his education at Broome Community College, earning a degree in accounting.

But it was love that drew him to Bethlehem, PA, where he would make his home

alongside his beloved wife. For three decades, he dedicated himself to Bethlehem Steel,

bringing the same steadfast work ethic and pride to his labor that he brought to

everything he did, providing for his family and building the life he had dreamed of when

he first set foot on American soil.

George was a devoted member of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, where he

became affectionately known as “The Salad Guy” during the annual Greek festival, a

title he wore with humor and pride as he served his community. He was also a

dedicated member of Ahepa, strengthening the bonds of his Greek heritage.

To say George was a proud Greek is an understatement. His face would light up at the

mention of someone being Greek, immediately launching into a warm interrogation

about their family’s village, their relatives, and the connections that might bind them

together.

George left this world better than he found it. He leaves behind a family whose love for

him knows no bounds, and whose grief is matched only by their gratitude for having had

him in their lives.

Viewing and Funeral: Saturday, February 7th, 2026, viewing 9:30AM to 10:30AM followed

by the funeral at 10:30AM all at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 1607 West Union Blvd., in Bethlehem, PA 18018. Interment will follow at Bethlehem Memorial Park Cemetery. Contributions can be made to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral in honor of George. We thank all the wonderful family and friends who showed their kindness and support to our family during this very difficult time.

Funeral arrangements are by the Herron Funeral Home Bethlehem. www.Herronfuneralhomecares.com