ANGELO PAPPAS

It is with sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Angelo G. (Tony) Pappas announce his passing on June 10, 2018. 

His parents, Jenny and George Pappas, were Greek Immigrants who instilled in all their children a passion for their heritage, reverence for their Orthodox faith, love for their family and a strong work ethic.  Angelo was raised in Charlotte, NC, the baby of the family and spoiled by brothers Steve and Ted, and sister Marie.  He and his second cousin Nick were inseparable; their bond was formed as children.  Angelo spent his summers in Nashville working at his uncle’s candy and ice cream shop, Candy Land, and by 14 years old was playing drums in local bands.  Angelo completed two years at Peabody College before enlisting in the Army during the Korean War.  The consummate entrepreneur, Angelo owned and operated many businesses and enjoyed interacting with the public.  Running restaurants was what he enjoyed the most:  The Driftwood Steakhouse, The Sands, and the Knife and Fork. Even in retirement, he worked in several wineries’ tasting rooms, pouring wine and conversing with the Sonoma tourists.

He met the love of his life, Maria Marinos, at a wedding and within 3 months they were married.  Angelo was the proud father of Gigi (Dushan), George (preceded in death), and Ted (Taylor). He was “kumbaro” to George and Dianne Leventis and George and Pauline Velonis and godfather to George Miller and Payton Miller.  He and “Rika” spent the next 58 years raising their children, supporting their church, enjoying every family life event and celebration, and exploring new travel destinations. 

Angelo’s love was unconditional, and his life was a party.  His children and grandchildren could do no wrong and his house was always open to family and friends.  Angelo, also known as Tony to his family and friends, had a keen sense of humor, put his love of family and friends above all other, and took a personal interest in everyone he came across.  He also enjoyed listening to Dave Brubeck and drinking a nice aged scotch.

He will be missed by his grandchildren, Ilija and Marina George (Dushan and Gigi) and Athena and Sofia (Ted and Taylor), his 5 nephews and 18 nieces, and his extended family and friends.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 15th from 5:00 – 7:00 pm, followed by the Trisagion (prayer service) at 7:30 pm, and the funeral service on Saturday, June 16th at 11:00 am followed by the makaria, all to be held at Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church, 1110 Highland Drive, Novato, CA, 94949.  Angelo’s final resting place will be beside his son, George, at Magnolia Cemetery, Charleston, SC; burial services will be private.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that a charitable donation be made to the Nativity of Christ, Greek Orthodox Church.

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