George Photakis, 91, of Holden, died Wednesday, December 4th in Holden Nursing Center. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sophia (Boretos) Photakis; his daughter, Connie Blake of Hyannis; four grandchildren, Zachery A. and Ariana C. Photakis, Christopher Blake and his wife, Karen and Kara Browning and her husband, Lt. T. J. Browning U.S.N.; three great-grandchildren Jared and Andrew Blake and Claire Browning; several nieces and nephews, including Holden Police Chief George Sherrill. His son, John G. Photakis predeceased him in 2002.
He was born in Thompsonville, CT the son of John and Ariadne (Papadam) Photakis. George served in the Navy during World War II as a Pharmacist’s Mate. For 67 years George owned and operated the Owl Shop on Main Street, and his community involvement earned him the unofficial title as the “Mayor of Main Street”. He was a long time member of St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral and had served as president of its Parish Council. George was also a member of the AHEPA and the Forty and Eight organizations. Mr. Photakis was very active politically and dedicated a great deal of time to many civic organizations for the betterment of downtown Worcester. He will be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather and as a kind and loving man; and a good friend to all who knew him.
His funeral is Friday, December 6th from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue with a service at 11:00 a.m. in St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery. Calling hours are Thursday, December 5th from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street, Worcester, MA 01609.