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George Parashis Obituary
George was born in San Francisco, CA to the late Ernest and Georgia Parashis and is survived by his sons, Ernest J. Parashis and George W. Parashis, and their mother, Elizabeth Parashis; loving brother of Harry (Tish) Parashis and Connie (late Gary) McIntyre; Grandfather of Quentin Parashis and Michael Doughty-Parashis; loving nephew of Martha (late Ted) Capinaris, late Peter (late Angel) Parashis, late James (Marie) Parashis, late Phillip (Sophie) Parashis; devoted Uncle of Holly Torres, Gina (Brian) Millard and Alexis Parashis; loving Cousin of Beatrice (Roy) Ranson, late George (Marion) Parashis, Jay (late Sandy) Parashis, Joyce (Tom) Triantos, Gail (Michael) Kelechava, Annette Vassallo, Stephanie Parashis, George P. Parashis, Elizabeth (John) Fredrickson, and Tina (Don) Mintz. Also survived by great nieces and great nephews.
George was a self-taught, extraordinary pianist. He was blessed with his musical talent and a beautiful voice. He was the owner of Bascom Cyclery in San Jose for many years and retired later in life to Nevada. "We will always carry your memory in our hearts."
Services to be held on Friday, Dec. 5, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel at the Golden Gate National Cemetery in San Bruno, CA. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in San Francisco, CA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Elizabeth Parashis
November 26, 2024
You are gone from my sight but never from my heart. You always have been and still are number one to me. 10 years hasn't taken away the full feeling of your presence. I will always love you.
Thank you Connie for the wonderful gift of this memory.
Ernie Parashis
November 25, 2024
Hi Dad, we miss you all the time. Ten years now, hard to believe this but you are waiting for us to come join you in our due time. Dad's photo at the east San Jose back house on Kirk Ave. at 17 years of age in 1956. He is showing off a zuccchini that was grown in the garden there.
Ernie Parashis
November 25, 2021
Thank you Aunt Connie for the nice memorial you have created on Legacy. Thank you everyone for your kind words and condolences. My dad is truly missed until we are reunited in heaven.
Love, Your Sister
January 4, 2015
It's been over a month since you left us and I think about you everyday. You will always remain in our hearts. Your memory will live on. You will never be forgotten.
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January 4, 2015
GEORGE'S EULOGY READ AT HIS MEMORIAL SERVICE.
Today we are here to celebrate the life of George Ernest Parashis. This is not a time to grieve his passing, but recall all of the happy memories he left to each and every one of us and know that he is now at peace and safe in the hands of his Lord and Savior. To his family, he will always be remembered as “Butch”. He was the first born to Ernie and Georgia Parashis in San Francisco, CA, on March 11, 1939. George was an extraordinary, self-taught pianist. Growing up he taught himself to play on an old piano that was in the back room of The Spot. Never took a lesson, and Liberace had nothing over him. George was also blessed with a beautiful tenor voice. He would sing and play his favorite songs on the piano. He was best remembered for his renditions of For Your Love, Love You So and In The Still Of The Night.
Growing up, George raised and showed homing pigeons at the County Fair each year together with his brother, Harry. They brought home several blue ribbons.
He always had a passion for bicycles growing up and pursued that passion. He later owned and operated Bascom Cyclery on Bascom Avenue in San Jose for many years. George was an entrepreneur at heart and was the happiest when he was his own boss.
In his 20s, George met his love, Alice Elizabeth Jones, and they were later married and together they were blessed with two sons, Ernie and George. Their son, Ernie, also blessed them with two Grandsons, Quentin and Michael. Although Elizabeth and George went their separate ways in life, they always had a special bond and remained close in life even up to the very end. George also remained close with Elizabeth's family; her sister, Sara, and her children, Heather and Mandi, and their children, Ella, Dakota, Ayden and Dylan.
George was especially close to his first cousins, Champ and Jay, and every opportunity he had, would go to San Francisco and visit them during their high school days. George was the oldest of all the first cousins on the Parashis side of the family. He cherished them all, Champ, Jay, Joyce, Gail, Annette, Stephanie, Tykie, Elizabeth and Tina. He was also blessed with many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins who he is now reunited with once again. George was the beloved Uncle of Gina, Alexis and Holly and Great Uncle to Holly's children. Patton, Jolie & River.
Towards the end of his life, George was overwhelmed with the love and support he received from his family. His brother, Harry, who was always there for him giving the encouragement and support that meant so much to his older brother. He so appreciated the phone calls he received from his Aunt Martie, whom he loved and cherished, she brought happiness and smiles to him whenever she called. The flowers and well wishes he received from his cousins, and his Auntie Martie, Auntie Sophie and Aunt Marie. George couldn't express in words how thankful and blessed he was to have the love and support of his sons, his brother, his sister, his Aunts, Cousins, his nieces, Elizabeth and her family, all the Parashis family and his friends. He would be in tears knowing how fortunate in life he was to have such a caring and supportive family. He left knowing how much he was loved and cherished and his family thanks each and every one of you for letting him leave in such comfort and serenity. George was so fortunate and very appreciative to have his son, Ernie, who never left his side (24/7) during his last few weeks, and having him there next to him when he departed.
From his son Ernie:
Hey Dad, I will never forget the last days spent being around you and how you had steadfast trust that Jesus has a place for you in eternity with him. Knowing that, I shall see you again. No one can replace you as my earthly father. We had many fun visits and you taught me life values through the years. No worries in the next life. I love you Dad! I will see you again soon enough.
From his brother Harry:
As my big brother, George was always there to guide and protect me through my young vulnerable years. I could always depend on him to set examples (some of which I didn't follow). He wasn't always right, but had my best interests at heart. He was a mentor to me in many ways. I looked up to him for guidance in all the ways a younger brother often does.
In recent years, I have fond memories of him coming to visit me in Carmel. He loved hanging out at Clint's Mission Ranch, walking Pebble Beach, and exploring the restaurants, galleries and shops in Carmel.
I admired his taste in fine music and loved his piano playing. One of my biggest pleasures was giving him a photograph of Doris Day signed by herself to him on his birthday 5 years ago. Having shared a bedroom with him as a child, I can't count (and don't want to remember) how many times I had to listen to the hit song “Secret Love”. At 10 years old, that song had an entirely different meaning to me, but now I could listen to it every day and capture a memory of George.
I was blessed to have spent time with him in recent weeks, and I will always be grateful for that time of closure. He assured me that he was ready to meet his Savior, which gave both of us much comfort. Although I will miss him dearly, I'm comforted by knowing he's in the Lord's hands and I look forward to seeing him again.
From his Sister, Connie:
You were the best “big brother” growing up. The significant difference in our age was never a concern. Thank you for all the bicycle rides and teaching me how to ride a bike. You would always be so proud of me and would take me everywhere with you. When you were a teenager and I was about 7 you'd even take me to Mel's Drive-In and proudly introduce me to all your friends as “your little sister” with a big smile on your face. I was proud to be with my big brother—you always made me feel so special. And thank you for being there for me when I around 8 years old and I decided I wanted to learn to drive a car. So who did I turn to but you, Butch. I remember you finally caved in. You got a couple of telephone books out and put them on the driver's seat of the car so I could see where I was going. I was too short to reach the gas and brake pedals so you handled that for me and off we went. I still can't believe I talked you into that one. Boy are you going hear about it now from Mom and Pop. Thank you for the great memories when you, Mary and I used to sing and record songs on the reel to reel tapes on the old stereo. You would sing lead and Mary and I were your backup singers. Our best recordings were “Come Softly” and “Mr. Blue” by the Fleetwoods. All 3 of us agreed that hands down we sounded much better than they did. We were second to none; well, at least in our minds.
I am most grateful for the time we spent before you passed. We reminisced about old times and left each other in a good place. The hardest was when I was leaving and sitting in the chair and watching you say good-bye to Gina and Elizabeth me silently asking God for the courage and strength to say good-bye to you knowing that this was truly goodbye, at least for now. As we held each other, not being able to hold back the tears, we both felt the love. I am so thankful for that time with you. Rest in peace and may your star shine the brightest. God's speed and thank you for being my “big brother.” Till we meet again. With love, Your Sister.
On behalf of the family, thank you all for attending today's memorial service. A special thank you to Father Aris and the American Legion for assisting in the memorial service. Much appreciated. The family cordially invites all of you to attend the memorial luncheon in George's memory at the Holiday Inn in South San Francisco. If you need directions, maps are available.
January 4, 2015
GEORGE'S EULOGY READ AT HIS SERVICE
May & Connie's High School Graduation
January 4, 2015
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December 7, 2014
Yesterday was the ceremony for George Ernest Parashis, the love of my life at the Golden Gate National Cemetery.
Wonderful beyond words and all due to the tireless, sometimes frustrating efforts of George's sister, Connie McIntyre. I cannot express my gratitude enough, it was moving and an honor George deserved and received because of Connie. And thank you to Connie's daughter Gina Millard for hours of uploading music to Connie's computer that Connie chose from the songs she knew he loved.
Connie arranged for Father Aris from the Greek Orthodox Church to officiate and had an honor guard from the American Legion prersent me with George's flag, play Taps and fire a 3 round volley salute.
A wonderful family and friends gathering for a banquet at the Holliday Inn where bonding and remembrances were exchanged made the day complete.
Thank you Connie, Gina, and George's brother Harry for making this special day possible.
Thank each of you who attended for coming, sometimes quite a distance, as did my niece Mandi Preece and son Dylan Preece who flew in from Utah to the Oakland airport where my sister, Sara Darnley with daughter Heather Keating, picked them up at 7:00 am to go straight to the ceremony.
We also wanted to sincerely thank Cousin Tony for driving all the way from San Diego to San Francisco to honor Dad.
Ernie Parashis, who spent day and night with his father George during his last 4 weeks of life is with me in these thoughts. It was a poignant time in Nevada with a long good-by. He lives on in our hearts but in Ernie's heart in a special way as he was with his father as he transitioned from this earthly life into the arms of Jesus, who George Parashis had complete faith, was waiting for him.
Thank you all and thank you, God Our Father, for this time with George and the celebration of his life.
Elizabeth Jones Parashis
Elizaabeth Parashis
December 6, 2014
Yesterday was the ceremony for George Ernest Parashis, the love of my life at the Golden Gate National Cemetery.
Wonderful beyond words and all due to the tireless, sometimes frustrating efforts of George's sister, Connie McIntyre.
I cannot express my gratitude enough, it was moving and an honor George deserved and received because of Connie. And thank you to Connie's daughter Gina Millard for hours of uploading music to Connie's computer that Connie chose from the songs she knew he loved.
Connie arranged for Father Aris from the Greek Orthodox Church to officiate and had an honor guard from the American Legion prersent me with George's flag, play Taps and fire a 3 round volley salute.
A wonderful family and friends gathering for a banquet at the Holliday Inn where bonding and remembrances were exchanged made the day complete.
Thank you Connie, Gina, and George's brother Harry for making this special day possible.
Thank each of you who attended for coming, sometimes quite a distance, as did my niece Mandi Preece and son Dylan Preece who flew in from Utah to the Oakland airport where my sister, Sara Darnley with daughter Heather Keating, picked them up at 7:00 am to go straight to the ceremony.
Ernie Parashis, who spent day and night with his father George during his last 4 weeks of life is with me in these thoughts. It was a poignant time in Nevada with a long good-by. He lives on in our hearts but in Ernie's heart in a special way as he was with his father as he transitioned from this earthly life into the arms of Jesus, who George Parashis had complete faith, was waiting for him.
Thank you all and thank you, God Our Father, for this time with George and the celebration of his life.
Elizabeth Jones Parashis
Golden Gate National Cemetery
December 6, 2014
Ron Mills
December 4, 2014
George was always a big brother to many as we were growing up.
You(George) are a beautiful human being. Many will miss you and your kind heart; I am one of those who will think of you often and smile because I knew you.
Dad in 1961
George Parashis
December 4, 2014
December 3, 2014
Sweet Uncle George,
I can picture it like it was yesterday. Christmas Eve at Grandpa and Grandma Georgi's house in San Jose, Everyone there -Ernie (with long hair , liitle George, Aunt Connie and Uncle Gary, the 3 aunts, uncle George Aunt Evelyn, Roy and Beatrice and Chris and Gina and I -even Bootsie. Your in a nice button down shirt, nice slacks and you have a chain around your neck. You always had style. Gina and I are in the back room creating a music performance and we always made you play the piano for our show. You were always so fun and willing. You just loved us little girls -your nieces so much. Thank you for those special memories on Christmas Eve at the Parashis home. They are some of the best memories I have from my childhood. I love you. Cant wait to see you again.
Love Holly
last visit to Carmel - 2013
Harry Parashis
December 3, 2014
As my big brother, George was always there to guide and protect me through my young vulnerable years. I could always depend on him to set examples (some of which I didn't follow). He wasn't always right, but had my best interests at heart. He was a mentor to me in many ways. I looked up to him for guidance in all the ways a younger brother often does.
In recent years, I have fond memories of him coming to visit me in Carmel. He loved hanging out at Clint's Mission Ranch, walking Pebble Beach, and exploring the restaurants, galleries and shops in Carmel.
I admired his taste in fine music and loved his piano playing. One of my biggest pleasures was giving him a photograph of Doris Day signed by herself to him on his birthday 5 years ago. Having shared a bedroom with him as a child, I can't count (and don't want to remember) how many times I had to listen to the hit song “Secret Love”. At 10 years old, that song had an entirely different meaning to me, but now I could listen to it every day and capture a memory of George.
I was blessed to have spent time with him in recent weeks, and I will always be grateful for that time of closure. He assured me that he was ready to meet his Savior, which gave both of us much comfort. Although I will miss him dearly, I'm comforted by knowing he's in the Lord's hands and I look forward to seeing him again.
Your memory and music will live in our hearts forever.
Gina Blancarte-Millard
December 3, 2014
Dear Uncle George,
I know you have passed but your beautiful music will forever play in my memory. You were the very first person who inspired my love for the piano and music, in general. Remember what I said during your last days on earth, "Look for that piano up in Heaven," and you, me, and the family will be playing it together someday. I miss and love you Uncle George. Your niece, Gina
Robin Mills
December 2, 2014
George.... I never really got the chance to speak to you as an adult but I remember spending time with family and talking to you as a little girl. I remember a very warm, sweet and loving man! I'm glad that I remember you like that and I'm so happy to have been a part of the family. I know my father, Ron Mills knew you very well and went to school with both you and Uncle Harry..... I know that's a beautiful memory for him...Rest in Peace.... It will be a great day when we will all be reunited with our Heavenly Father... ?
Vince & Mary Catalano
December 2, 2014
Thinking of you and your family-you were a very special person-thanks for the great memories.
Mike & Wanda Jones
December 2, 2014
Thoughts and Prayers to the family.
December 2, 2014
You knew me as a very young woman and grew with me through the years. Now I will grow with you in spirit. I love you and always have. You are in my heart forever.
December 2, 2014
I'm very sorry for your loss and the loss for your family. I'm glad you had the opportunity to spend time with him during his last days/hours.
Daniel Burns
December 1, 2014
Mr. Parashis, we never met in person. But I know your son Ernest well. He's a very good man, as you know. So in a small way, I feel I do know you, through my connection with Ernie. I know you were a good man - the proof of this lives on today in your son. Rest in Peace Mr. Parashis.
Tina Mintz
December 1, 2014
Thank God for memories of the summer house, Santa Cruz and Greek Easter! We are so blessed to have these memories of our big Greek family. Until we're all together again...
December 1, 2014
Many great memories and now you are with many family members. I will donate to my son Andrew's planned community service event in your name - the best way to honor you
December 1, 2014
Rest in Peace son, brother, nephew, grandson, cousin, husband, father. Many people will remember you as friend and family and miss you dearly. Love, Your sister-in-law Sara
December 1, 2014
May your soul be eternal. Thanks for always being there for me when I was growing up. You were a great big brother. Teaching me to ride a bike, drive a car (at 8 years old). Only the good times will be remembered. Rest in peace.
Love, Your Sister
George and little Ernie 1965 188 Wilton Dr. Campbell, CA
December 1, 2014
Ernest Parashis
December 1, 2014
Dad, your light shines bright in our hearts and minds.
Ernest Parashis
December 1, 2014
Hey Dad, I will never forget the last days spent being around you and how you had steadfast trust that Jesus has a place for you in eternity with him. Knowing that, I shall see you again. No one can replace you as my earthly father. We had many fun visits and you taught me life values through the years. No worries in the next life. I love you Dad! I will see you again soon enough. Ernie
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