Andrew P. Matalas

Andrew P. Matalas, affectionately known as “Papou Andreas,” of Arlington Heights, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 94 years old. Born on July 20, 1931, in Karyes (Arahova), near Sparta, Greece, to Panayiotis and Xaitho (née Prekezes) Matalas, Andrew lived a life that reflected the values of his Spartan heritage and the true essence of the Greek word philotimo—a “friend of honor.” Losing his mother at the age of 10 forced him into adulthood early, shaping him into a man defined by courage and resilience.

At the age of 19, in 1950, he journeyed to the United States “off the boat,” first arriving in Columbia, South Carolina, before ultimately settling in Chicago in pursuit of the American dream. He cherished the freedom and opportunities he discovered in his new country. With resilience and determination as his constant companions, Andrew worked tirelessly—washing dishes and waiting tables in iconic Chicago hotels including the Drake, the Sherman, and the Hilton—as he saved to build a better future and help support his family in Greece.

His hard work and perseverance culminated in a proud achievement: owning and operating his own restaurants—from a humble 13-stool diner in South Chicago, to the cafeteria at the American Bar Association in downtown Chicago, and finally to a large and lively family restaurant in the suburbs where even his children worked for years. Through these efforts, he was able to bring his family from Greece and offer them new opportunities in the country he so deeply loved and appreciated. His dedication to providing for his family was unwavering.

On May 9, 1964, Andrew married the love of his life, Diane (née Karras) Matalas. Together they shared 61 wonderful years of marriage, creating a beautiful life filled with faith, love, and laughter. He was a devoted husband and a loving father to Peter (Amy) Matalas, Heidi Matalas, and Maria (Dino) Bolos. To his grandchildren—Alexandra, Diana, Andrew, Petros, Athena, Andreas B., Leo (Leonidas), Andreas M., Christina, and Jerome—he was “Papou,” a source of wisdom, humor, and boundless affection.

Andrew was a founding father and past president of St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church in Palatine, IL, a role that reflected his deep faith and commitment to his community. He poured his heart into the church he helped build and treasured the relationships formed there. One of his most cherished experiences was traveling with Diane and their church community on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

He remained sharp and vibrant well into his later years, with an extraordinary memory that allowed him to recall the intricate details of his life. A young child during World War II, Andrew developed a lifelong fascination with the era, finding comfort in books and films about its history. His connection to his Greek heritage was equally profound—he delighted in attending family dinner dances and weddings, proudly sharing stories of his past. Known as one of the best Greek dancers around, he brought energy and joy to every celebration. His specialty was leading the tsamiko, often kicking, flipping, and even letting others dance atop his chest. At these gatherings, he was lovingly called “leventi”—a Greek term for a handsome, brave man who celebrates life with joy and honor.

Andrew’s kitchen was the heart of his home. He was happiest cooking for others—his famous soups, keftethes, pastitsio, and beloved apple cake were staples of family gatherings. Feeding others was his love language, and his warmth made everyone feel like family.

Andrew was the same man no matter whom he was with—genuine, humble, and full of heart. Whether he was speaking with the President of Romania or forming a lasting friendship with his landscaper (who later invited him to his own wedding), he treated every person with the same respect, curiosity, and kindness.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Diane; his children and grandchildren; and his sister, Heido Karitsiotis, along with many nieces, nephews, and godchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings—Eleni, Toula, and Paraskevas.

Andrew’s relentless courage, generous heart, quick wit, and deep love for his family and faith leave a legacy that will endure through all who were blessed to know him. May his memory be eternal.

A visitation will be held at St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church, 133 S. Roselle Rd., Palatine, IL, on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 9:30 AM until the time of the funeral service at 10:30 AM. Interment will follow at St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery, Palatine, IL.

A Short Story to add…

"The Warmest Coat in America"

Unlike North Carolina and South Carolina, Chicago winters were bitterly cold. Andy had to walk 10–15 blocks from the Sherman Hotel to his apartment, often at 2 a.m. after his shift. He didn’t have a coat.

“I had no money for a coat, no money for a streetcar, no nothing,” he said. “So I walked. I walked all winter with no coat, freezing my bones. I never realized it could be so cold.”

That winter, Andy made a promise to himself: “I’m going to take care of my sister, and then I’m going to buy the warmest coat in America.”

After a year in Chicago, the day finally arrived. Andy had saved enough money for Eleni’s dowry, which he sent to Greece from the First National Bank in downtown Chicago in 1954. That left only $100 in his account, but he walked out of the bank feeling like he owned it. Then he headed to an Army surplus store in Logan Square. It was July, and the temperature was 100 degrees.

“You got a coat? I want the heaviest one you have,” he asked.

The store manager showed him a double-breasted, twenty-pound coat—and Andy bought it.

“He think I’m crazy. Everyone think I’m crazy,” he said.

Andy put on the thick, warm coat and walked out of the store. He strolled through the streets of Chicago in the sweltering heat, everyone staring at him, and he didn’t care. An enormous smile spread across his face.

“I was never so happy in my life.”