Leo Angelo Kalyvas Jr.

Born in Detroit to Leo and Fotini Kalyvas, immigrants from Epirus Greece. Leo began his strong work ethic by working at his family confectionary as a young child, stocking shelves and working the counter making ice cream sundae’s and soda’s. He laughingly referred to himself as a “soda jerk”. He started driving a car at the age of 12 and delivered cigarettes to homes and businesses. He and his family were strong in their greek heritage. They were very active in the Detroit Epirotic Society and attended all the picnics and dances. This is where he met the love of his life, Alice Venettis. She captivated him. He drove miles cross town to see her in a day where freeways were not built as yet. They fell in love that eventually endured for nearly 65 years before Alice was called home to the Lord. Leo and his brother in law, started a very successful business known as Union Vending. The two brother in laws worked together for approximately 20 years before they decided to branch off and split the business. Leo formed Union Music and Cadillac Vending which serves the entire metro area bar and restaurant communities. He was extremely driven to build his company and eventually established the largest vending/amusement operation in the southeastern Michigan area .

Leo and Alice went on to have three children, Kathy (Tom) Jerger, Tina (Tom) Jankowski and John (Dawn) Kalyvas. Together they built a beautiful life. Leo was very kind and generous man. He was active in many charities including The Guild at St. John Hospital in Detroit where he was honored in 2012 for his lifetime achievement. He was an early member of the board of Adios Children’s Charities. He was involved in helping acquire the property of what now is the current location of Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in St. Clair Shores. He was a very generous man with his time, talent and donations and never seeked recognition for what he did. An avid golfer he was a Lifetime member of Lochmoor Club where he made many close friends and relationships. His love for the club (his home away from home) was apparent as he was a staple in the mens grill playing cards with all of his friends.

His family was his life. He did everything to make their lives easier and fulfilling. He was proud of his children and grandchildren, Michael Jerger, Stephanie Jerger Thomas, Peter Jankowski, Matthew Jankowski, Isabella Kalyvas, Sophia Kalyvas, Alexa Kalyvas and great - grandson, Parker Jankowski.

Leo was also a strong Christian who put all his faith in the Lord. He was called home on July 15th 2022 where he was reunited to his love Alice.

Donations in his name appreciated to Assumption Greek Orthodox Church.