Steve was born June 1, 1934 in Mansoura, Egypt to a Greek father and Italian Mother. Growing up in an expatriate community, Steve mastered five languages (Greek, English, Italian, French and Arabic) and rowed competitively on the Rive Nile while in the Sea Scouts. In 1957 he immigrated to Athens, Greece and worked for Olympic Airways. On a beach in Varkiza he met the love of his life, Popi (Pizanias) and they married December 11, 1960. They were blessed with two sons: George in 1962 and John in 1967. Steve worked for Olympic Airways until 1970 when the family immigrated to Tarpon Springs, FL to follow the American dream and provide his sons opportunities, such as George’s early dreams of being an aerospace engineer. Steve started from scratch, finding himself working in the travel, restaurant and hospitality industries.
The original ballroom dancer, Steve enjoyed spinning Popi (or Fred and Ginger as many referred to them) around the dance floor. He was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels and donated many hours to fund raising efforts for Levendia, a Greek Folk Dance group in Tarpon Springs. He attended virtually all of his sons’ sporting events and if he could not make a game due to work, he attended practices. He taught the boys competitiveness and sportsmanship all while keeping them humble by beating them in late night ping pong matches, or playing horse in the driveway. His passion for sports continued until the very end by watching every soccer game available and avidly following the Florida Gators.
Steve and Popi’s goal of the American dream was achieved – George works for Boeing in Seattle, where he started as an aerospace engineer in 1985, and John is a Senior I.T. Manager at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Steve and Popi returned to Athens in 2000 to assist Popi’s aging mother. They traveled around Greece and Europe when they had the opportunity. They “re-immigrated” to the US in 2010, living in Kenmore, Washington. They have been actively involved in the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Seattle, making life long friends. Steve even helped with the pastry baking. Steve is survived by his wife Popi of 58 years, son George and wife Penny, son John, and his four grandchildren, Stephen, Kassiani, Christopher and Nicholas. He was an honorary “papou” (grandfather) to many others.
We will miss his sense of humor, his kindness, and his smile.
Trisagion (prayer) service, Tuesday January 22nd 7pm
Funeral service Wednesday, January 23rd, 10:30 am. Both services will be held at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Assuption. 1804 13th Ave., Seattle, WA 98122. As guests of the parish please do not pay to park.
Mercy Meal will follow funeral at the church. Internment at 2pm. Floral Hills cemetery, Lynnwood
In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to the Greek Orthodox Church of the Assumption. 1804 13th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98122.
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