George Dermarkar's Obituary
It is with heavy, yet hopeful, hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our dear patriarch, Dr. George Archak Dermarkar. George passed peacefully, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loved ones, his wife and children. George has officially retired his pager and traded-in his white coat for a pair of angel wings!
George was born on November 25, 1950 in Cairo, Egypt, to Raouf and Perouz Dermarkar. George attended primary and secondary school at Jesuit in Cairo. He completed his medical education at Cairo University Faculty of Medicine. He then served as an officer in the Egyptian Army, completing almost four years of obligatory service.
George’s fortunes brightened when he met the love of his life, Mary Badra, who he married on February 28, 1982. He and Mary moved to Canada briefly until later immigrating to the United States. In 1984, they had their first child, Patrick, in Boston. George was then accepted and began residency in internal medicine at Hahnemann Hospital in Scranton, Pennsylvania, in 1986. He and Mary then had their second child, Monica, in 1987. He completed his residency in 1989 and returned to Massachusetts to begin his fellowship in Hematology and Oncology at UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester. He and Mary had their third and final child, Michelle, in 1989. In 1992, upon completion of his medical training, he accepted a position in Brandon, Florida, where he began his practice and officially traded the blistering winters for the sunshine state. He thoughtfully and passionately served the greater Tampa area for almost 30 years as a Hematologist/Oncologist, highly respected and warmly loved by his colleagues, patients, and most of all, by his family.
George was often known for his light-hearted spirit. His looks. His jokes. His demeanor. He was always ready for a good laugh, and was a good sport, often being teased by his beloved wife and children. He enjoyed being around people and attending outings/parties with close friends and family. He loved to dance and often acted as the unofficial Zorba dancer, usually appearing less graceful than he likely thought he was. He enjoyed smoking cigars on his lanai after a tough day, though usually in celebration. He enjoyed drinking ouzo, but secretly loved to drink fruity drinks such as his favorite, the Bahama-Mama at Bahama Breeze.
George loved his family with all his heart. He harped on having dinner together daily, ensuring a close bond amongst our household. He treasured family trips and vacations and looked forward to new and exotic experiences shared together. He loved holidays and reunion events such as weddings, where our entire extended family would be together, in joy, laughter, and love.
George leaves behind his beloved wife, Mary (whom he was married to just short of 43 years); his children, Patrick, Monica, and Michelle; his children in-law Alexandra and Fady; his grandchildren, Giorgio, Leo, Theodore, Yara, Isabella, and Elina, and his siblings, Marie Therese and Pierre. He is preceded by his parents (Raouf and Perouz), his uncles, an aunt, and a few cousins.
George always dreamed of living on a Greek island, a life no better exemplified than in Mamma Mia!. His family requests that, rather than mourning his loss, raise a glass of ouzo and celebrate his life and saying “Opa Yorgo!”
John 16:33: I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
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