James Tom Gianacos

James Tom “Jim” Gianacos, 75, passed away peacefully at home on May 3, 2025, in Newcastle, Washington. Born on September 10, 1949, in Seattle, Washington, Jim lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, humor, and an enduring passion for vintage technology.

A proud graduate of Renton High School in the Class of 1968, Jim went on to study electronics at Renton Vocational Technical Institute. His passion for electronics would become both his profession and lifelong pursuit. He owned and operated Cosmos TV in Ballard, where he became a trusted figure in the community for his skill and dedication.

From 2006 to 2017, Jim served as President of the Puget Sound Antique Radio Association (PSARA), leading the organization with enthusiasm and expertise. Under his guidance, PSARA thrived as a community of like-minded enthusiasts brought together by their shared love for vintage electronics.

Jim had a gentle kindness and a goofy sense of humor. He never spoke ill of others and was well loved. He had a gift for making others feel at ease—whether through his light-hearted humor or simply by being a nonjudgmental and open-minded listener. Sometimes that meant offering a comforting ear during difficult times; other times it meant simply being there with calm reassurance. Jim was always willing to lend a hand or offer support when someone was in need.

Whether it was dressing up as Santa Claus to deliver bikes and toys to a single mother with four boys—one battling cancer—or simply showing up without fail to support his children at their events, Jim was there.

Jim endured health challenges including spine surgery and partial paralysis. For two years he resided in various rehab and care facilities, developing and improving his ability to walk again. His determination paid off and he was able to return home. Jim enjoyed his time back at home doing what he does best, working on his antique radios and winding up his vintage clocks.

He is survived by his loving sister Dina Pickens (Wayne); half-sister Peggy Hubbard, daughters Georgia Steenis (Kevin), Tami Gianacos; nephews and nieces Gabriel Pickens, Tobin Pickens, Karen Johnson, Stephen Hubbard, Jim Hubbard, and Kathleen Serafin. Jim also shared an unbreakable bond with his best friend Stan Abbott—more like a brother than a friend—whose companionship enriched every chapter of Jim’s life.

Jim is preceded in death by his father Tom Peter Gianacos of Kalamata, Greece; and

mother Georgia Gianacos (Mehas) of Petrina, Greece, brother-in-law Bob Hubbard and nephew Dave Hubbard.

Jim’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched and with every radio restored. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. A Celebration of Life with lunch following will be held at Holy Apostles 19421 Ashworth Avenue North Shoreline WA 98133. For date and time please contact Georgia @ [email protected] | 206-419-6867.