Gust Bafaloukos

Gust Bafaloukos passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in a small village on the island of Andros, Greece, Gust lived a full and adventurous life rooted in hard work and devotion to family.

At just 11 years old, Gust began working for a local butcher, developing a strong work ethic that would define the rest of his life. By the age of 15, he had joined the Greek Merchant Marines, sailing around the world aboard cargo ships—a time he often described as his first true love and a chapter of life he held close to his heart.

In 1955, Gust arrived in the United States, landing in Norfolk, Virginia. With determination and hope for a better future, he traveled by bus to Gary, Indiana, to stay with his Theo Gus. Soon after, he made his way to Phoenix, Arizona, where he joined his Theo George and Thea Artemis. It was there, working side by side with his uncle at the Busy Bee Cafe on 1st Avenue and Washington Street, that Gust found his calling in the restaurant business. He eventually became a partner in the cafe and, in 1957, married the love of his life, Mena.

Together, Gust and Mena raised two children, Cathy and Tony, building a life filled with warmth, laughter, and the rich traditions of their Greek heritage. In 1974, the Bafaloukos family opened a new restaurant, The Andros, at Hayden and McDowell Road in Scottsdale, Arizona. For more than five decades, Gust was a fixture in the restaurant world, known for his hospitality, dedication, and the pride he took in serving his community. He retired from the restaurant business after 52 dedicated years. Gust was also member of the Order of Ahepa (American Hellenic Education Progressive Association) for 64 years. He received his lifelong membership status in 2011.

Gust found great joy in serving his community. He loved participating in Greek festivals and church dinners, often cooking traditional dishes, especially fasolada, for the ladies who baked glyka for church events. Gust was a husband, a father, a friend, and a mentor. His story is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering devotion to his family, to his craft, and to the life he built in a new land while never forgetting where he came from.

Gust is preceded in death by his parents Anthonis & Katina; sister Froso; brothers Leonard, twins Bill & Tom, and younger brother Stephano. He is survived by his wife Mena; daughter Cathy; Son Tony (Jackie); Granddaughters Nicole, Stephanie (Jaime); Grandson Ryan (Kendra); Great Granddaughter Kalliope; and his younger sister Olga.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Friday, June 20, 2025 from 6-8:00 p.m. with Trisagion service at 7:00 p.m. to be held at Valley of the Sun Mortuary, 10940 E. Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85248. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, 2716 N. Dobson Rd, Chandler, AZ 85224. Interment will follow at Valley of the Sun Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, 2716 N. Dobson Rd., Chandler, AZ 85224, in memory of Gust Bafaloukos.