Evaggelos Eleftheriou

Evaggelos Eleftheriou of Bradenton, FL passed away Sunday September 7th after a long and fulfilling life. He was born March 25, 1931 in Pireaus Greece and immigrated to the United States in the late 1960s. He was known by his Greek family and friends as Vageli or Vago. By his American friends he was known as Angelo, or to many as simply Pappou (grandpa). Evaggelos was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to many. He was dedicated to his faith, and to serving the Greek Orthodox Church.

He grew up in Greece during WWII and after his father passed away early in his life, Evaggelos worked as a mechanic for the Greek Royal Family to support his mother and sister.

He married his love, Stella Malli in Greece in 1958, they had 3 children, Peter, Michael and Maria.

Searching for a better life for his family he traveled to Germany, Canada and finally migrated to the Boston area where he was employed as an Auto Mechanic. Early on he slept on a cot at his job so he could send money to support his family in Greece while also saving to purchase a home for his family in America. In 1972 he was able to purchase that home and moved his family to Arlington, MA. He was a very talented and well sought out mechanic in the Cambridge-Belmont area for over 30 years. He truly was the embodiment of the American Dream.

In addition to his devotion and love for his family and church he loved to dance. Greek dance was a passion, and it always brought joy to Evaggelos. Whenever he got the chance he would dance, bringing joy to all who watched. He was always warm and friendly and had a sparkle in his eye as he met new people.

He served the Orthodox Greek Church throughout his life. He was a Deacon at St Athanasius Church in Arlington, MA, as well as St Barbara Church in Sarasota, FL. He also happily volunteered annually at the Greek Festivals to support both churches.

Evaggelos was pre-deceased by his beloved wife, Stella Malli. He is survived by his 3 children, Peter Ellis and wife Joanne Ellis, Michael Eleftheriou and his wife Lynn, and his daughter Maria Geis and husband Jeff Geis. He has 7 grandchildren, Jessica Russell (Christopher Russell/husband), Jacalyn Eleftheriou, Evan Geis, Ryan Ellis, Ana Eleftheriou, James Geis and Stella Geis along with 4 great-grandchildren, Madison, Olivia, Henry and Cooper Russell.

Evaggelos belonged to the Athenian-Pireau Club in Cambridge, MA. He was loved and will be greatly missed as he won the hearts of many with his great smile and twinkling eyes.

Evaggelos will be laid to rest Friday September 12th. Visitation will be at 9am, followed by Funeral mass at 10am, both will be held at St Barbara Church, 7671 Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL

Immediately following the funeral mass will be the burial and luncheon. Location at Groover Funeral Home, Mansion Memorial Park, 1400 36th Avenue East, Ellenton, FL, all are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St Barbara Church, 7671 Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL.