John Yeralis

May 3, 1924 – August 20, 2015

John (Yanni) passed away at the age of 91 in the arms of his beloved wife and daughters at their home in Thousand Oaks, CA. Born on the island of Somos in Kokkari Greece he immigrated to America through Ellis Island in February 1956 to join his uncle in Lodi, CA. He returned to Greece to marry Anna in 1958 and they returned to Lodi to continue their married life for 57 years and build their wonderful family. Yanni’s career was in the restaurant business where he happily and generously provided many meals for those less fortunate. His first restaurant was named The Rex Café and in 1985 John and Anna opened The Greek Hero – both in Lodi. The logo for the new restaurant was an image of John. The opening was hosted by one of Lodi’s mainstream radio stations and John became a “star” in both Lodi and Stockton. On opening day, in true “Greek Hero” fashion, John insisted that all meals were to be free. The restaurant became very popular and was a success for many years. John and his family were dedicated members and supporters of Saint Basil’s Church in Stockton, CA . When John retired he loved to garden and tend to his many fruit trees and roses. He and Anna moved to Thousand Oaks, CA in 2014 to be closer to their children and grandchildren. His courage, dedication and love of family and friends will be remembered by all who knew him. He was always ready and willing to help his family and friends whenever he was needed.

John is survived by his wife Anna, daughter Maria (Cory Lerios), Katina (John Beach) and son Michael. He was blessed with six grandsons who will miss their “Papou”: Andrew, Michael and Demitri Lerios and Tyler, John-Michael and Stephan Beach. He also leaves behind many family members and friends who were always in his heart and him in theirs.

Funeral services will be held at the Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral 1324 S. Normandie Ave., LA CA 90006 on Saturday, August 29, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church, 920 W March Lane, Stockton, CA 95207.