George A. Contakis

My father Jimmy Galanis wanted to give his condolences to George's family. Their parents Manoli and Stratia were siblings, and my dad has fond memories of George driving he and his brother Peter around as kids, taking them to get ice cream in Springfield. Although I personally never got to meet George, he seemed like a great guy who lived a great life. May he RIP

Our prayers go out to the entire Contakis family!

Mr. Contakis was a kind, compassionate person and administrator at FCCS. He always had a smile and words of encouragement for everyone he met. He was a role model who extended his experience and expertise to new staff and helped us become better social workers. He left an indelible legacy at FCCS and will always be fondly remembered. To his family and loved ones, I offer heartfelt condolences for the loss of such a special human being.

As policy and procedures writer at Franklin County Children Services, I interviewed George many times about the programs he directed. He was always good natured, generous with his time and clear in his explanations of services.

My wife, Pam, and I both worked with George for many years at Franklin County Children Services. We last saw him with his extended family at Columbus Crew games in the old stadium seated up behind the visitors´ bench.

I had so much respect for George or, "Mr. Contakis," as most of us knew him. His gentle, calm, friendly, deliberate, and approachable manner made him a source of strength and stability in a world that was often stormy. We need more of that kind of man in today's world, don't we?