For some reason, I was thinking about "Mr. K" today.  it has been well over 50 years since he was my social studies teacher at IS 61 in the late 1960s.  Of course I had to do a google search and came upon this memorial page.  
On the chance that one of his children might see this I just want you to know, Mr. K was not just my teacher.  He was my friend and my mentor and my protector in a tough and unruly school during a turbulent time.  He was not just a great teacher, he was a wonderful, kind, caring and decent man.  

I wish I would have reached out to tell him that while he was alive.  He truly made a huge difference in my life and in the lives of countless other kids.  Just wanted to share that.


I had the good fortune of growing up with Manny… it began as schoolyard pals playing stickball and handball together.   Then with Michael Galub and Joel Kronfeld, we forged a gang of four during our high school years.  Many a Friday night was spent hanging out together, sharing thoughts of who we were and what the future would hold.  Then on Saturday it was sports in Kissena Park…softball, football and basketball.  Sometimes on Saturday night, we'd gather at my house to play bridge…it was self-taught and disastrous at first. Other Saturday nights it was at Mannys' house, with stale pretzels providing food for thought.  As college beckoned, Manny had the first car and we spent evenings parked on his street enmeshed in mature discussions of love, life and politics.  Manny was bright, articulate, able to dissect a fallacious thought with a simple “Why?” question…he never offended, but rather offered a quick smile and an engaging chuckle that always brought out the best in us.  After college, we began separate roads.  Now being together, was more on the occasion of a special event.  Most notable, Manny was the first to marry, the first to be a father… a role model for the rest.  Joel and I last visited him at his house in the summer of 2011, travelling to Flushing from Ottawa and Houston… we just picked up where we left off.  I always felt our collective book would have more chapters, now the remaining pages will be left blank, and a gang of three will have wonderful memories of a well spent youth, thanks to Manny…who we shall always miss.

I was reminded of Mr. Kourkoutis as I was look through my brother's yearbook and boy had I loved that guy! As my guidance counselor I remember him cracking jokes with me all the time and discussing my love for music. I loved spending time with him, sometimes during lunch or other times I would ask for a hall pass to the bathroom and go hang out with him. I really looked up to him, he had a charming personality and good soul.

I am so deeply saddened.....Manny was one of the finest individuals i have ever known.....may his light keep shining.  Deepest sympathy to his family.

My heartfelt condolences to the Kourkoutis family.  I had the privilege of having Mr. “K” as my history teacher in 1972 at I.S.61Q. He was a young 29 yr old teacher who enjoyed playing handball after school with his counterparts. Of all my teachers, he was my favorite.  I remember him for his enthusiasm and dedication toward his students. His open and patient approach and his unique sense of humor sticks out as one of the most efficient and capable styles of teaching I have ever experienced. He made history come alive in all of us. We will miss you Mr.”K”

Chris, Im so sorry for the loss of your father.  Please know that my family, along with our exstended IFD family, are thinking of you and stand with you during these difficult times.  If there is anything we can help with, please do not hesitate asking.
Sincerely, Trevor & Allison Peyus

I am sorry to hear of Manny's passing.  I worked with Manny for many years at IS119, Glendale, Queens.  I remember him as always happy and smiling, with a positive attitude. My thoughts and prayers are with you. 

Louise Asperas, Melville, New York

I am so saddened by this news.  Manny was my mentor and I will always remember him.  He was very proud of both of his children,  May he rest in peace and God bless.

OBITUARIO

Emmanuel Kourkoutis

Falleció en 17 DICIEMBRE, 2013

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