MR. CONSTANTINE PETER KANAKIS, age 86 of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away on Monday, March 20, 2023. He was preceded in death by his father, Peter Constantine Kanakis and his mother, Matina Balabanos Kanakis. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jo Ann Kanakis; daughter and son-in-law, Matina Kanakis Graffeo and Barry Graffeo; son and daughter-in-law Peter and Rhonda Kanakis; sister-in-law, Dee Pihakis; grandchildren, Cal and Anna Constance Graffeo, Gia and Alec Kanakis; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Connie was born October 24, 1936 in Birmingham. He was a graduate of Georgia Military Academy and a 1959 graduate of Auburn University. He served 4 years in the Alabama Air National Guard. He was a proud father, papou and a dedicated husband. He was a lifelong member of Holy Trinity Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
For many years, he successfully owned and operated a number of well-known restaurants around Birmingham, including Michael’s, Rossi’s and Connie Kanakis’ Cafe.
Over his lifetime, he passionately served many associations and boards including The Auburn Alumni Board, The President of the Parrish Council of Holy Trinity Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Connie was an Auburn Baseball Letterman Club member, Lifetime member of the Auburn Alumni Association and The Auburn All American Society. He was most proud of being designated an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, which is the highest honor for a lay person in the Greek Orthodox Faith. His love for Auburn, golf and family will live forever.
Visitation and funeral will be held at Holy Trinity – Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral on Thursday, March 23, 2023. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am with funeral beginning at 11:00 am. Immediately following the funeral will be the burial at Elmwood Cemetery. A Makaria (Mercy Meal) will be served in the banquet hall after the interment.
The family would like to thank the many doctors and nurses that cared for him at St. Vincent’s and Grandview Hospitals.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Holy Trinity – Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral, St. Jude Hospital, or the charity of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.johnsridouts.com for the Kanakis family.
