Obituary of Stanley George Zabetakis

Stanley George Zabetakis, 86, peacefully passed in his sleep on July 15, 2008 at his home. In 1922 he was born to George and Stella Zabetakis, a coal miner's family, who had immigrated from Greece to Burgettstown, PA.. Stationed in Europe during World War II, he became a tank destroyer battalion unit commander, and received 3 Bronze Stars, a Good Conduct medal, EAMET medal, Victory medal, as well as a battlefield commission to 2nd Lieutenant. In 1945 he married his high school sweetheart, Kay Vorinakis, eventually celebrating 63 years of marriage. He attended the University of Pittsburgh and received Electrical Engineering and Physics Degrees. To further his career with the Federal Government he moved his family from Pennsylvania to Ohio where he completed his 35 years of government service by joining the Air Force Reserves and working at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. He lectured and became published for his expertise in intelligence radars. He was also active in Professional organizations such as the IEEE. Because of his leadership ability, he rose to become the Branch Manager of the FT Division, a group of over 100 technology employees. In addition to being elected president of the Beavercreek Association, his community leadership was evidenced in his coaching of baseball, basketball, and assisting with the boy scouts. His sports of choice were softball and tennis, in which he excelled and enjoyed, playing into his 80s. Stan eventually retired from the federal government, but not before being awarded the title, "Federal Employee of the Year". Stan always wanted to live in Florida and in 1980 moved with his wife to join their children there, and began accommodating visitors from the North on a regular basis. Stan was preceded to the great beyond by three (3) brothers, John Emanuel, and Mike. Stan is survived by his wife, Kay, three sons - Stan, Jr., Mike, Champ, and seven (7) grandchildren (Alexis, Emily, Katee, George, Mike, Nick, and Zack), as well as many nephews and nieces. Stan also leaves behind siblings: Steve, Liberty, Kathryn, Nick. A memorial service will be held Friday, July 18, 2008, 12:00 Noon at Sun City Center Funeral Home, 1851 Rickenbacker Drive, Sun City Center, Florida 33573 (813) 634-9900