George Nitis

Resident of Saratoga

George Nitis, age 90, fell into eternal sleep on Thursday, December 6, 2018. Originally from Enumclaw Washington, George made California his home in the early 1950s.

He served in combat as a Sergeant during the Korean war in the 140th Tank Battalion, 40th Infantry Division in the Kumwa Valley area, then the Punchbowl and Smoke Valley. George received the United States Presidential Unit Citation and the Korean Presidential Unit Citation.

He was awarded two Purple Hearts for injuries in combat as well as the UN Ribbon and the Korean Ribbon with one campaign star. During his tour, he also served as a Greek interpreter for the Greek army that was serving at the same time.

He was the co-owner of the Jim & George Texaco previously located across the street from Fremont High School in Sunnyvale. George enjoyed celebrating people and hosted many parties which included an annual pool party for the disabled children. George loved to dance and could always be found performing the traditional Greek dances.

George is predeceased by his parents Katherine & John and brothers, Paul and Jim. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Margo; his son Johnny, his daughter Michelle (Carlos), grandsons Giovanni and Jonathan, “hanai” granddaughter Naleo, his sisters in law Joan (Paul) and Hazel (Jim), and many nieces and nephews and friends who called him “Uncle George”.

The Trisagion Prayer Service will begin at 6 PM on Sunday 12/16 at St. Basil’s Church at 6430 Bose Lane, San Jose, CA 95120. Burial Services will begin at 10 AM on Monday again at St. Basil’s Church with burial at Mission City Memorial Park (Greek plot) 420 N. Winchester Blvd, Santa Clara and a reception back at St. Basil’s to follow. Donations to St. Basil’s Church has been requested by George in lieu of flowers.