George Pillis

George Pillis, 91 of Salem, passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, May 12, 2011. He was born on May 23, 1919 to the late John H. and Katherine Kunes Pillis. Mr. Pillis was the founder & owner of Pillis Brothers Service Station; established in 1942, located in Salem, where he ran the operation for 67 years. He was also a former member and president of the Virginia Gasoline Retailers Association. Including his faithfulness to his business and prior memberships, he will be remembered as well as a founding and faithful member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Salem, as well as a previous member of The Knights of Columbus. In addition to his parents, Mr. Pillis was preceded in death by seven brothers, William, John, Elmer, Woodrow, Benjamin, Edward, and Mark Pillis. Surviving him include his wife, Emma Pillis; sons, David Pillis & wife Beckie, Sherman Pillis & wife Julia, Steve Pillis & wife Robin; daughter, Carolyn Pillis, & husband Richard Howard; brothers, Luke & Andrew Pillis; sister, Cely Galligan; grandchildren, Cassie Pillis-Gent, Robert Pillis, Clare Peters, Amanda Pillis, Drew Kiracofe, Jacob Pillis, & Zachary Pillis; great-grandchildren, Olivia Pillis, & Garrett Gent; Numerous nieces & nephews also survive. Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, May 16, 2011 at 11 am, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help with Father Kevin Segerblom officiating. Burial will follow at Cedar Lawn Memorial Park, Roanoke. The family will receive friends Sunday, May 15, 2011 from 2-4, & 6-8 pm at John M. Oakey & Son funeral home, Salem. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, or to the Salem Animal Shelter. Friends wishing to offer their condolences may do so by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.