Gus T. Arvanitis

Gus T. Arvanitis of Des Plaines passed peacefully on September 11, 2022 surrounded by his family. Gus was born on May 23, 1937 in Nestani, Greece to Theodosios K. and Petroula Arvanitis. He was the beloved husband of Vasiliki “Kiki” (nee Demos) for 60 years. Devoted father of Petroula (Zachary) Bazianos, Dena (Steve) Pavlopoulos, Ted (Michelle) Arvanitis, and Trifona “Aki” (Tina) Arvanitis. Cherished grandfather of Sofia, Ariana, Costa, Gus, Ava, Charlie, Dean, Lucas, George and Ellie. Dear brother of the late Peter (the late Panagoula), the late Dena (the late Andreas) Spyropoulos, Mary (Andy) Gallanis, Fotoula (the late Nick) Argyros. Dear uncle to many nieces and nephews and friend to many.

Gus immigrated to America from Greece in 1954. He was always grateful for all the opportunities offered in his new homeland. He was constantly pursuing knowledge whether it was American history or Paul Bocuse cookbooks. He had a passion for cars, photography, wood working, and furniture making; building furniture for his home and serving as his own contractor for most of his home projects. He took pride in landscaping and gardening his yard, even winning an award from the city of Des Plaines for his own landscaping design. A self-taught chef, he led the kitchens of family restaurants for over 40 years. His greatest joy came from cooking for his family and teaching his grandchildren the secret to his Pappou’s beef, special chili, Thanksgiving stuffing and incredible breakfast spreads. The beauty and greatness he brought to all he touched will never be forgotten nor duplicated.

Visitation will be Friday, September 16 from 10:00 AM until the time of the Funeral Service at 11:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, 2350 E. Dempster Street, Des Plaines.

Interment will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a charitable donation be made in memory of Gus's life to St John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church.

May his memory be eternal

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.lauterburgoehler.com for the Arvanitis family.