George James Soter fell peacefully asleep in the Lord on February 27, 2018, at home, surrounded by his loving family. George was born on July 7, 1927, in Amarillo, Texas, to Greek immigrant parents, James and Helen Soter. He and his two siblings were raised in Oklahoma City, where his father established the well known “Coney Island” located in the downtown area. The Soters were early members of St. George Orthodox Church. They held on to the Greek way of life and passed it on to their children. His father instilled the concept that if you work hard you will be successful.
George graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. He began his career at Tinker Air Force Base, then joined Sorey, Hill, and Sorey. In 1959, he ventured out on his own with Paul F. Sprehe, and established Soter and Sprehe Engineering, which remained a fixture in the world of engineering for many years. He then continued with his own company, Soter Engineering, and eventually simplified his practice to solo consulting. He was active in several of the Societies affiliated with Electrical/Mechanical Engineering. George retired at the young age of 86. He was well respected for his work, and even bragged that he had been in the business long enough to redesign his old projects.
George met the love of his life, a beautiful Greek girl named Mary Samaras, in 1948. After a courtship of 3 years, they married on June 24, 1951. From that day to his last, George’s eyes lit up when he saw his Mary. They were destined to have an exciting life together, even as their honeymoon is remembered for George hitting a cow en route to their destination! Within the next 10 years, their family grew to include 3 children. Elaine, Karen, and Jim were the lucky offspring to enjoy Daddyo’s endless love. Their life together was marked with love, plenty of family, and countless friends. George was the steadfast supporter, the “fix it” guy, the one who helped the children with science and math projects. Whenever there was an event in the extended family, George would be there, the steady “rock” who brought calm to the storm, joy to the celebration, and level-headed encouragement when needed. George did not crave the limelight. He would humbly stand back and glow with pride at whatever accomplishment was reached by his family.
George loved his friends. They entertained them with Mary’s lavish parties, with George often tucked in a corner telling jokes to an amused audience. There were countless trips and cruises which spelled great memories for all. George and Mary loved dancing. Even on their 60th anniversary, George would glide along the dancefloor, showing off his Mary.
In addition to his family, George cherished his Orthodox Christian faith. When he was able, he tended to his church’s needs. He served on countless church boards and committees, and as President for several terms. Moreover, George was a testament to living a Christian life…quietly, humbly, and unselfishly.
George is survived by his wife Mary, daughter Elaine and son-in-law Burke Thomas, daughter Karen and son-in-law Gus Papagolos, and son James and daughter-in-law Dottie Soter. His beloved grandchildren include Christopher Thomas, Stephanie Thomas Bollenbach, Austin Bollenbach, Angela Papagolos, Mary Papagolos, George Soter, and John Soter. As the patriarch of the clan, George loved his nieces and nephews beyond measure. “Daddyo”, Papou George leaves behind a rich legacy to be carried on through his family.
He is predeceased by his parents Helen and James Soter, sister Eptanthi Conkling, brother Louis Soter, as well as their spouses Dick Conkling and Korene Soter. Also greeting George in the next life is his sister-in-law Irene Panos Conkling, U. Nick Panos, and Bill Conkling.
Trisagion service is Sunday 6 pm at Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper, 6600 Broadway Extension, Oklahoma City, Ok.
Funeral service is Monday 2 pm at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 2101 NW 145th Street, Oklahoma City, Ok.
May His Memory Be Eternal.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint George Greek Orthodox Church of Oklahoma City; or charity of choice.
