BALMVILLE, N.Y. — George C. Makris, international shipping magnate of 55 years, passed away on June 16, 2010, at his Balmville, N.Y. home with his family by his side.

A man who achieved success in all aspects of his life, Markris was the epitome of the American dream. Born Feb. 2, 1925, to Greek immigrant parents in Bronx, N.Y., Makris was raised in Manhasset, N.Y., working as a youngster in his father’s delicatessen. In World War II, Makris served in the special services, amphibious command of the Army, in the Pacific theater, landing on the beach of Leyte Gulf, Philippines with Gen. MacArthur and fighting in the battle of Corregidor, where he was decorated with the Bronze Star with Combat V and Purple Heart.

After 24 months in the Valley Forge Veteran’s Hospital, Makris attended the University of Miami on the GI Bill, obtaining a business degree. There he met his wife, Patricia Georgitson, a National Airlines chief stewardess.

Always a car buff, endless efforts to secure a job in the automotive industry were fruitless, prompting Makris to take a position as a purchasing agent for the then “‘Dean of Shipping” Manuel Kulukundis. With his keen intelligence, uncanny intuition and enormous work ethic, Makris learned the ropes quickly, opening his own shipping companies Crystal Maritime, Delta Navigation and later Trident Maritime Agency. Makris would become world renowned within the shipping industry for his clever business acumen and debonair charm. His strong negotiation skills and fair play, aligned him in close favor with Lloyds of London. He was a longstanding member of UK Mutual P and I Club.

He thrived upon the intrigue and the dangers of operating a shipping fleet on the high seas from offices in London, New York City and Pireus.

A charismatic and dynamic individual, Makris resided in upper Brookville, NY with his wife and two daughters for 45 years. His roles on community planning and zoning boards were storied, as his brass-tacks savvy prevented anyone from taking advantage of the town or him. Philanthropically and socially, Makris and his wife were generous and beloved. As a military veteran ambassador, he helped with the commissioning of the USS Leyte Gulf, CC-55. The Navy League of the USA, United Cerebral Palsy and numerous hospitals were allegiances Makris held dear.

A longtime member of The Antique Automobile Club of America, Makris was an avid collector and restorer of 1930s to 1950s classic cars, winning countless show prizes, including the coveted Concours d’ Elegance “best in show.” His reputation for perfection in performance is still revered.

Widowed in 1996, Makris retired to his Fort Lauderdale residence in 2007, maintaining close to ties to both St. Sophia and St. Demetrious Greek Orthodox Churches.

Makris is survived by his daughters, Katina Makris of Peterborough and Barbara Makris, grandson Jacob Hollander and sister Evangeline Makris.

A man of noble character and profound integrity, George C. Makris will be forever remembered for the impact he made on all the lives he touched.

A funeral service was held Monday, at St Paul’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Garden City, N.Y. Burial followed in Locust Valley Cemetery, Locust Valley, N.Y.

To send a personal condolence, visit Brooksfh.com.