Nikos Chris Papasarantou

Nikos Papasarantou passed away peacefully at his home at the age of 94 on January 4, 2012, surrounded by his family. Born on December 16, 1917 in the mountain village of Roino, Greece, he was one of eight brothers and sisters. In 1939, he was given the esteemed honor of being chosen as an Evzon soldier, a select member of the King’s Honor Guard, a unit still afforded the highest respect today. After serving as an Evzon, Nikos became a sheriff leading a platoon fighting the rising communist movement during and after World War II. With his efforts, he helped to ensure that Greece would not become a member of the Eastern Soviet Bloc. He was considered a hero in Greece and legendary for his achievements and received numerous awards and medals as a result. He immigrated to the United States in 1950 and became a citizen in 1962. He lived the American dream as an owner of his own business. He was a co-owner of The Cadet Cafeteria, a popular downtown eatery, and later acquired numerous commercial properties.

In his later years, Nikos enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him much happiness. He took joy in the simple things in life such as gardening, baking custard pies, and watching sporting events, especially The University of Oklahoma and the OKC Thunder. Nikos was proud of his Greek heritage and was a member of St. George Greek Orthodox Church for over 62 years.

He is survived by his wife Maria; children, Chris and Angela; their spouses Katerina and Jim; and grandchildren, James, Avery, Niko, Anna Maria and Freddy; along with extended family and friends whom he adored.

Viewing will be Saturday, January 7, at Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Trisagion service will be held Sunday, January 8, 2012 at 6:00pm at Hahn-Cook/Street and Draper. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 on Monday, January 9, 2012 at St. George Greek Orthodox Church. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 2101 N.W. 145th, OKC, OK, 73134. Arrangements under the direction of Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper Funeral Directors, Oklahoma City, OK.