George Panagiotou Mackres

George Panagiotou Mackres, 83, of Forked River, NJ, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on February 14, 1942, in Argos, Greece, George’s life was marked by resilience, perseverance, and an unyielding dedication to his family. Orphaned at the age of five, he was later adopted by a distant aunt and uncle, with whom he emigrated to the United States at thirteen years old. Though his childhood was filled with hardships, George never let those challenges define him. Instead, they became the foundation for his extraordinary determination and work ethic.

Leaving school in the ninth grade, George pursued opportunity with unmatched drive. By the age of 18, he owned his first business—a pizza shop on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. In his mid-twenties, he moved to New Jersey, where he purchased the Olde Forked River House in Forked River, NJ—a place that became both a family home and a cornerstone of his lifelong career.

Over the decades, George expanded his vision and entrepreneurial spirit, building successful restaurants, a hotel, housing units, and shopping plazas. He co-founded Aphrodite Marble and Granite with his late brother-in-law, George Katsianis, further reflecting his commitment to family and partnership. He also founded Argos Farm, a family-centered destination that became a beloved part of the community and a tribute to his hometown in Greece.

Deeply devoted to his faith, George was instrumental in helping to build Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church in Toms River, NJ, where he also served as a former Parish Council President. His service and generosity strengthened the parish community, reflecting his love of heritage, tradition, culture, and giving back blessings he earned.

George is survived by his devoted wife, Aphrodite; his four children, Faye Roeber (husband George Atis), Yianna Kaplanidis (husband John), Angela Martin (husband Spyro), and Nick Mackres (wife Politimi); and ten cherished grandchildren who were the joy of his later years. He is also lovingly remembered by his nephews, nieces, and extended family, who carry forward his values of hard work, faith, and resilience.

To his family, George will always be remembered as a loving husband, proud father, and doting grandfather. To his community, he will be remembered as a persevering businessman who rose from humble beginnings to build a legacy of success, faith, and family—a true embodiment of the American Dream.

Viewing services will be at Layton’s Home for Funerals on Thursday, September 11th from 4 pm to 7 pm. Funeral services will be held Friday, September 12th with viewing at 11 am and liturgy at 12 pm at Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, followed by burial at Ocean County Memorial Park. The family welcomes friends and loved ones to join in celebrating George’s extraordinary life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of Aphrodite Mackres, who will donate half to the village church in Argoliko, Greece, and the other half to an orphanage in Greece.