George Charles Alex, 94, of Burr Ridge died May 10, 2022.
George grew up in a loving family in Clarksburg, W.V. During his youth he worked at his family’s restaurant, The Manhattan. A person of immense curiosity about all manner of things, he was drawn to math and science. He attended West Virginia University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with honors and distinction. Upon graduation, he was recruited by the then preeminent international giant, The General Electric Co. Following two years of active military service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, he returned to General Electric and remained there for his entire 40-year career. Through talent, hard work and determination, he rose from a trainee to a senior management role in the sales of complex industrial equipment.
After college, he courted the love of his life, Helen. The two married and lived in Schenectady, N.Y., where they had the first two of their three children, Charles and Anne. They moved to Cleveland in the late 1950s, where their third child, William, was born. In 1971, the family moved to Hinsdale.
George was an avid skier, fisherman and an enthusiastic bridge partner with his wife. He was a highly experienced traveler who loved the American West and Alaska. In addition to his family, George was committed to the Greek Orthodox Church. He was a past president of Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church in Westchester and was on the parish council for 45 years. George emanated authentic joy and peace. He touched countless lives with a firm handshake and warm smile. He was a mentor to many and a veritable endless reservoir of giving to others.
He is survived by his children, Dr. Charles (Mary) Alex, Anne (Theodore) Theophilos and William (Chrisie) Alex; his grandchildren, Nicholas Alex, Dean (Leigh-Ann), Jamie and George Theophilos and Helen, George and Peter Alex; his great-grandson, Theo Theophilos; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Helen, nee Papazickos; and his siblings, Evangeline (the late Gus) Pappas and Alexander (Maria) Alex.
A funeral took place May 16 at Holy Apostles Greek Church in Westchester. Interment was at Chapel Hill Gardens West Cemetery in Oakbrook Terrace.
Memorials may be made to Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church, 2501 S. Wolf Road, Westchester, IL 60154.
Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
