Micheal Adondakis

Micheal Adondakis "Father George"  Micheal Adondakis "Father George" fell asleep in the Lord May 21, 2003 after a long, courageous battle with polio.  He was born September 20, 1938 in Bingham Canyon, Utah to Greek immigrant George Adondakis and his wife, Mary (Varanakis). He was preceded in death by his first wife, Rosemary Georgatos.  He leaves behind four children, Greg (Tara), Sam Adondakis, Carolynn (Jorge) Daskalakis and Sophia Adondakis; his current wife, of 27 years, Mary Tubbs Adondakis; six grandchildren, Micheal, Anna, Stephania, Isaac, George and Constantine who were the light of his life; sisters, Argie (Mike) Carmichael, Sophie (Dan) Kouris; brother, Fr. Isaac (John); step-mother, Mary Adondakis; sister-in-law, Irene (Joe) Polidori; they will miss him greatly. Michael will be remembered for many things, but above all, his uncompromising love for his family and the Greek Orthodox church to which he devoted his life.  Tonsured a monk in 1998, he gave up his earthly calling to dedicate his life to God. Prior to fulfilling this calling, he lived his life with the same uncompromising dedication. Stricken with polio at the age of 10, he lost the use of his legs. His determination to overcome his handicap kept him upright on crutches for years. Throughout this tribulation, he continued to live life with vigor. He never made excuses for himself, and excelled in everything he did. Despite his adversity, he was a leader and acted as a big brother to his cousins who loved him very much. He graduated high school as a student body officer and went on to become an alumnus of the University of Utah. After 20 years on crutches, he finally succumbed to a wheelchair at the age of 30. This, however, did not slow him down. A fearless entrepreneur and active participant in the Greek community, Micheal started many businesses and played an integral role in the Orthodox church. His business accomplishments include: initiating a sales territory in the Pacific Northwest in food distribution, owning his own chain of supermarkets (Michael's Food Mart, Utah), and starting his own lending company (Great West Financial). His philanthropic accomplishments, however, defined him as a person. He was a Sunday School teacher, administrative assistant to Fr Katsaris at Holy Trinity Church in Salt Lake City, and founder of St. George Greek Orthodox Church in West Jordan. He was also an amazing benefactor to anyone in need; much to the dismay of his wife, he would invite anyone into his home for a meal at any time of day. His faith, courage and sense of humor inspired all who knew him. Anyone who was fortunate enough to have an encounter with him could not help but look past his wheelchair and see only his competitive nature and lively spirit. He was an excellent debater and arguer who, because of his keen mind and the ability to yell louder than the other person, never lost an argument. He was quick with a joke, an amazing conversationalist, and someone who made everyone feel welcome. His charismatic personality, courage and faith will be dearly missed. May his memory be eternal. Funeral services will be held Saturday, 8:30 a.m. at the Saint George Greek Orthodox Church, 1538 West 7800 South where friends and family may call Friday, 6-7:30 p.m. with a Trisagion service beginning at 7 p.m. Interment, Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Under the direction of McDougal West Jordan Mortuary.  In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Saint George Greek Orthodox Church.