Steve Georgallis, 81

November 02, 2024

Steve Georgallis, a man deeply committed to his family, passed away on November 2, 2024, at the age of 81, at his home in Wake Forest, NC. He was cherished by those who knew him, leaving a legacy of generosity, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to family.

Steve was born on the island of Kos, Greece, on March 17, 1943, to George Sevastos Georgallis and Eftihia Cleopatra Georgallis. After graduating from Kos Hippocrates High School in 1960, he served in the Greek Army, where he spent his military service in Serres, Greece. Following his service, Steve enrolled in the National Technical University of Athens to study Electrical Engineering in the Vocational School. His journey then led him to Munich, Germany, where he worked for BMW for five years. In 1970, he joined his family in Lancaster, PA, where his sisters Patra Georgallis Poneros, Themis Georgallis, and Maria Georgallis Barron, as well as his youngest brother Greg Georgallis, had already settled with their parents, George and Eftihia.

On a visit to Kos to visit his brothers Elias Georgallis and Thomas Georgallis in 1971, Elias introduced him to the love of his life, Maria Petris Georgallis. The two married within a month of returning to Kos! Steve and Maria decided to build their life together among family and the many Greeks from Kos who had emigrated to Lancaster, PA. Steve and Maria became active members of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, which provided them a supportive environment as they transitioned to life in America. Steve worked for 20 years at Howmet, later Alumax, until a medical condition necessitated his early retirement. Despite this setback, he continued to make an impact on his family and friends through his humor, generosity, and love for family.

Steve and Maria were blessed with two children, George Georgallis, 52, married to Angela, and Catherine Ballman, 49, married to Thomas. His greatest joy was being “Papou” to his six grandchildren: Sofia Georgallis, 19, Sevastos Georgallis, 18, Lukka Ballman, 16, Evangelia Ballman, 14, Zoey Ballman, 12, and Calliope Ballman, 10. Steve taught his family that life’s greatest fulfillment comes from loving and supporting those around you. Steve’s humor and generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the friendships he cherished and the love he poured into his family.

A funeral service will be held on November 6, 2024, at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 64 Hershey Ave, Lancaster, PA 17603, at 11am with viewing prior beginning at 10am. Steve will be laid to rest following service at Conestoga Memorial Park.