Sotirios "Sam" T. Gogos

Sotirios (Sam) Gogos, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy defined by courage, perseverance, and unwavering devotion. Born in 1937 in Distrato, Greece, high in the mountains of Epiros, Sam was the twelfth child of Theodore and Agoritsa Gogos. His early years were marked by war, hardship, and scarcity—experiences that forged in him a deep determination to survive and to build a better life.

In 1955, at just 18 years old, Sam journeyed alone to America through Ellis Island, wearing a suit his brother had sent him to make the voyage. He arrived with little more than hope—and yet he embodied the American Dream in its purest form. Through grit, relentless work, and a deep faith in God, he built a life of stability, fulfillment, and profound love. Sam believed wholeheartedly that with effort and perseverance, you could achieve anything you set your mind to. His life was living proof, and one of his favorite sayings was, “Grab the bull by the horns.”

One of the greatest blessings of his life came when he was set up on a blind date with the woman who would become his wife. After only three weeks of dating, Sam and Joanne (née Martakis) knew they had found love. They married soon after and went on to share 60 years of a deeply devoted, enduring love—one that remained strong and tender until his final day.

Sam was the cherished father of Rachel (Dino Kartofilis) and Telly Gogos, and the devoted Papou of Zoe and Alexa Kartofilis, who brought him endless joy. He was preceded in death by his parents and his eleven brothers and sisters, and is survived by many dear friends whose lives were touched by his generosity, humor, and gentle strength.

A proud and tireless restaurateur, Sam owned and operated The Plaka Restaurant in Kenmore, NY, for the past 32 years alongside his wife and son. Prior to that, he was the owner of Sammy’s Texas Hots in Buffalo for 25 years. His restaurants were more than businesses—they were gathering places filled with warmth, laughter, and the unmistakable imprint of his hospitality. To countless customers, he was not just a proprietor but a friend.

Sam’s absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved him.

The family will be present to receive friends on Tuesday, November 25th from 3–7 PM at Perna Dengler Roberts Funeral Home, 1671 Maple Rd., Williamsville, NY. A Trisagion service will be held at 6 PM at the funeral home. Visitation at church will take place on Wednesday, November 26th, from 10:30–11 AM, followed by the Funeral Mass at 11 AM at the Hellenic Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, 1000 Delaware Ave. at West Utica St., Buffalo, NY. Please assemble at the church. Interment will follow at Elmlawn Cemetery in Tonawanda, NY.

Donations may be made in Sam’s memory to the Hellenic Orthodox Church of the Annunciation.