The Wild Bird Feeding Institute (WBFI) and the backyard bird feeding industry has lost a friend and leader with the recent passing of George Petrides, Sr.

George loved the outdoors, people, and business. Based on these passions, he founded a national franchise: the Wild Bird Centers of America, Inc. in 1986.

George served on WBFI’s Board of Directors for more than 20 years and helped establish the WBFI Research Foundation. He played a key role in the design, promotion, and support of the successful, first industry-wide effort, “PROJECT WILDBIRD”. George also served on the “Birder’s Team Task Force”, sponsored by the Department of Interior and National Wildlife Refuge System which sought to better serve visitors of federal refuges and national parks. As a result of his many efforts, George was recognized by the Fish & Wildlife Service, the U.S. Department of the Interior, and WBFI for his work on raising the profile of bird feeding and habitat protection.

George Henry Petrides, Sr., loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather passed away at the age of 77 on March 6, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife Bette, son George, his two sisters Olivia and Lisa, and his three grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church at 6601 Bradley Blvd, Bethesda, MD 20817 at a date yet to be announced. Donations in his name can be made to Michigan State, School of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Michigan State University was George's alma mater and where his father taught Wildlife Ecology.