Piraeus-born Andrew George Kallianos, PhD, passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2019 at his home in Durham, North Carolina, aged 88.
He was the son of the late George Chris Kallianos and Effie Papadaniels Kallianos. In addition to his parents, Dr. Kallianos was also predeceased by his sisters, Peggy Sakalas, Eire Demales, and granddaughter, Mary Kristin Kallianos.
Dr. Kallianos’ life was truly a personification of the American Dream. He came to the United States all alone at the age of 17. He obtained his undergraduate degree from Hendrix College, his Masters Degree in Chemistry from The University of Arkansas, and his PhD in chemistry from The University of Oklahoma.
He became a nationally-recognized scientist with over twelve U.S. patents in his name. He married the love of his life, June, in 1953, and together they raised their four children and instilled in them the importance of faith, family and education.
Dr. Kallianos was particularly proud of the success of his children. Jean is a pharmacist, George is a radiologist, John is an internist/pediatrician, and Chris is an attorney.
He was a man of tremendous faith. He spent more than fifty years as a leader in the Greek Orthodox Church. In 2008, he received the Archangel Michael Award in recognition of his devotion and service to the Greek church.
Dr. Kallianos was known to have “never met a stranger.” He was known by all for his smile, sweetness, loving disposition and humor. One of his favorite pieces of advice was to “Love each other forever and have fun.”
He was blessed to have thirteen grandchildren and four great-grandchildren whom he loved dearly. He left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him and an amazing legacy for his loving family.
Dr. Kallianos is survived by his wife of 65 years, Betty June Kallianos; sons, George Angelos and wife Karen; John and his wife Donna; Chris Michael and his wife Nancy; sister, Jean Kallianos Hanna and her husband John; and brother Angelos Kallianos and his wife Katie.
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