Dr. George M. Skardasis, beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend passed away on January 4, 2021 from complications of pulmonary fibrosis. He was born on the island of Kalymnos, Greece to Michael and Evdokia Skardasis. He was one of 8 children. As a young boy, he survived the German occupation of Greece during WWII. He went to medical school in Athens, Greece and served in the Greek Army. In 1962, he immigrated to the US in order to complete his surgical residency at Crawford Long Hospital in Atlanta. George met his wife, Carole who was a nurse at Crawford Long. They married in 1963 and were together for 44 years until Carole passed away in 2007. George started his own vascular surgery practice at Crawford Long Hospital where he opened the first vascular lab in the Atlanta metro area. He served as the medical director of the lab for 40 years. He continued to operate and treat patients at Emory University Midtown until the age of 84.
George lived his life to the fullest. He was passionate about raising his children in the traditions of the Greek culture and church. He built a second home on the island of Kalymnos and would travel there 2 to 3 times a year. There he enjoyed spending time with his siblings, family and friends. George also loved spending time by the sea in Destin, Florida. He loved to go snow skiing and was known for his singing on the slopes. George touched many people's hearts. He was very kind,compassionate, loving and funny. His family and friends enjoyed his cooking and storytelling. Most recently last August, he was able to return to Greece. He stayed for two and a half months surrounded by his family. He is survived by his son Mihali, his wife, Erin, and their children, Stella and George. He is also survived by his daughter, Alexia Keim, and her husband Jarrett, and their daughter, Sofia. His remaining siblings are Captain Leandros Skardasis, Dr. Angelos Skardasis, Rena Zambartas, Athenais Mavrikakis, and Elpis Dionysiou and their families. A private service will be held on Friday, January 8 at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation followed by interment at Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation 2500 Clairmont Road NE. Atlanta, Ga 30329.
