Obituary of George Arkalis

George Christopher Arkalis a resident of Burlington for the past 61 years passed away surrounded by his family after a short illness on Sunday afternoon, June 7, 2015. He was 72 years old. George was born in Woburn, the son of the late Mary and Christie Arkalis. His family lived in Woburn until he was in 8th grade and then moved to Burlington. George was a graduate of Burlington High School, Class of 1960. During his high school years, he was a member of the football team. He had a great many friends from high school and was thrilled to join them as their football team was inducted in to Burlington High School’s Athletic Hall of Fame. He continued his love of sports throughout his life as a fan of all the Boston Sports teams, especially the Patriots and his sons and later grandchildrens involvement in youth and high school sports. He spent most of his life working as a leatherman at Amdur Leather in Woburn with father, uncle and cousin. Everyone in this world possess unique and special qualities that make them distinctive and that was true for George. George had special qualities that made him receptive understanding, and loved by all. He was very approachable and knowledgeable on a wide variety of topics. He was unpretentious and wasn’t one for change. Family and friends seemed to gravitate to George. He was thought of as a “Second Dad” to many and a friend to all. He was happy to hear about your activities and interests and was a friendly face for someone in need. He was soft spoken and kind in his ways. He placed his family first and frequently visited his parents, sister, and friends. He thought it was a gift to see his grandchildren on a daily basis and be part of their upbringing. He cherished the gift of receiving a heart transplant in 2001 and made the most of the past 14 years. George’s memory will always bring a smile to those he touched in his 72 years. George was the loving husband of Donna Rae (Wilmont). He was the loving father of Christopher & his wife Kim of Burlington and the late Lonnie. He was the son of the late Mary & Christie Arkalis and brother of Paulette “Cookie” Robinson Of Tewksbury & her companion, David Murphy. George was the Proud grandfather of Amanda, Chris, Jonathan, and Joe Arkalis. Uncle of Charles and Christine Robinson of Methuen. Funeral services will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., BURLINGTON (exit 34 off Rt. 128/95, Woburn side) on Thursday, June 11 at 11 a.m. Visiting hours Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. Interment in Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited.