George C. Harokopis, 93, of Laramie, departed this life on November 17, 2017 in Laramie, WY to rejoin his beloved wife, Flora who preceded him death in 2014. He was born April 2, 1924 in Rock Springs, WY, the son of Chris and Amelia (Panigaris) Harokopis. He graduated from Rock Springs High School in 1942 then entered the U.S. Army during World War II, serving with the 104th Infantry Division known as the Timberwolf Division, serving in the European Theatre that was engaged in campaigns in Belgium, Holland and Germany freeing prisoners from concentration camps including Nordhausen.
Upon returning to Wyoming, he attended the University of Wyoming graduating in 1949 with a degree in Architectural Engineering. He then joined the newly formed engineering-architectural firm of J.T. Banner & Associates located in Laramie. He worked his way up and eventually acted as the principal in charge of the Architectural department, retiring in 1987. During his tenure he saw this firm grow from three employees to over 150 with six offices throughout Wyoming, Colorado, and South Dakota.
In 1948 he married Flora M. Bucho, former resident of Rock Springs. In Laramie he was a life member of the B.P.O. Elks Lodge #582, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #2221, the American Institute of Architects and the Wyoming Society of Engineering. More recently his interests included the morning coffee gathering with friends where they’d solve the world’s problems. He enjoyed listening to the experts discuss sports, politics, health and the stock market. He was a member of the St. Paul’s Newman Center parish and Saint Constantine & Helen Church of Cheyenne, WY.
He is survived by two sons, Dr. Michael S. & Cathy (Sanford) Harokopis; Richard Harokopis & his companion Shelly Smith Newman, two granddaughters, Andrea of Ft. Collins, CO and Elizabeth of Denver, CO and many nieces and nephews. His parents, wife Flora, three sisters and a brother preceded him in death. All who knew him, as a loyal friend, dedicated father and successful businessman will dearly miss him.
Funeral liturgy will be held Monday November 27 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Newman Center with the Reverend Fr. Rob Spaulding, celebrant. Interment will follow in Green Hill Cemetery with military rites by the Laramie Veterans Honor Guard and the Wyoming National Guard.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Paul’s Newman Center in Laramie, to the Abbey of St. Walburga in Virginia Dale, CO or to a charity of your choice.
Richie and Mike, so sorry for the loss of your Dad, a truly exceptional individual. So sorry that I was unable to arrange work coverage, I would have like to have been there for the services on Monday. Tim and Julie
Dear Mike & Ritchie, Whenever I ran into your father, he always had time to chat and exchange pleasantries! He would leave me with warm feelings-as do you brothers. Bob Powell
Mr. Harokopis - appreciated and missed. Sincerely, your friend Jamey P. Eddy
Cathy and Michael: The Staff of Wyoming Public Media send condolences in the death of George Harokopis. He will be greatly missed . We appreciate your continuing support of Wyoming Public Radio. Cindy Elrod Broadcast Assistant
Sympathies from the Pryich Family of Rock Springs. -Idele, George & Angelina, Ann & Ron
Mike, Cathy and family, I'm so very sorry for your loss. I hope your good memories will help you through this difficult time. Love, Donna Thompson
Dear Richie, Our hearts go out to you for the passing of your Dad. You selflessly cared for and watched over your Dad, and now it is God's turn to do that in the Kingdom. You know we both loved George and had many enjoyable encounters with him. George had such a caring way about him and always a smile and a kind word for us. He will be missed greatly. Our prayers and condolences to you and your family. Sincerely, Mary and Jim Truesdale
Sorry for your loss, Rich