Ioannis "John" G. Papas

Born in Greece and arriving in America in the 1960s, John became a cornerstone of Detroit's Greektown. For over 40 years he was the beating heart of Pegasus Taverna, where he greeted every stranger like family, served authentic Greek food, shared endless laughter, warmth, and stories that stayed with people long after they left the table. A natural entertainer with a heart as big as his personality, John lived to make others smile, giving joy, quiet strength, and memories that became part of who people are.

A pillar of the Greek community, he carried the immigrant spirit in the most human way: through face-to-face moments, eye contact across a crowded restaurant, a hand on a shoulder, and stories told over plates of food that turned customers into lifelong friends.

Above all else, John adored his wife, Lisa, and was profoundly proud of his children. Family was the center of his world, and he taught them that love, loyalty, and family come before all else. A lesson that will live on through them forever. Some of the family's most treasured memories were poker games around the dining room table, always led by him, where laughter came easily and he never minded letting his children win. He was an affectionate father in the truest sense, raising six children through cuddles, rocking and holding them close. The last few years, he got to enjoy his new role as Papou to his cherished grandchildren.

John is predeceased by his parents, Gregory and Athina Papas. He is survived by his devoted wife of 35 years, Lisa; their six children—Gregory, Alexandra (Adam), Kristina (Jake), Athina (Zac), Andreas, and Elena; his grandchildren—Pheonyx, Oliver, Gabriel, Scarlett, Xavier, and Katalina; brothers Dr. Spyro (Despina) Pappas and Dimitrios (Jim) (Viola) Papas; and many nieces and nephews who will forever cherish him.

Visitation will be held at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, located at 21800 Marter Rd, St. Clair Shores, MI 48080, on February 7, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:30 am followed by the funeral service. Arrangements entrusted to A H Peters Funeral Home.