Our Mission

George N. Fitusis lived a life that only God could have scripted. Born on May 5, 1932, in the mountain village of Pityos, Chios, Greece, George left home at age 14 to sail the globe in the Greek Merchant Marine.

While serving, he saw a photo of his comrade's cousin and began corresponding via letters with the love of his life, Angeline. Those letters turned into "I dos" in a California hospital room the first day they met—with immigration officers waiting in the next room to deport George back to Greece. But persistence paid off, and George returned to his bride a year later, tying the knot again in a Greek Orthodox ceremony in Gary, Indiana.

With less than a second-grade education, George did whatever it took to support his wife and four daughters. He was the epitome of love in action—sponsoring and welcoming countless family members and friends from Greece into his home in America, giving them opportunity and a chance at a new life.

After establishing himself, George built a 50+ year career in the restaurant industry. He pursued better for himself only to help others prosper. He was the light that shined to illuminate their path.

George exemplified love through his energetic spirit and contagious laughter. A man of selflessness and generosity, he was known for calling everyone "my friend"—whether he knew them for 30 years or 30 seconds.

On June 1, 2024, sitting in his beloved church during his grandson's wedding, George said, "God is good," and moments thereafter, he left this life for the next. This scholarship honors his legacy of faith, service, and creating opportunities for others.