Menelaos “Big Mike” Efstratios, 83, a Korean War veteran, passed away peacefully July 13th with the love and support of his family and close friends. Mr. Efstratios, a member of the Headquarters Battery 15th AAA Battalion, fought in the intense Battle of Pork Chop Hill. He achieved the rank of Sergeant before receiving an honorable discharge from the United States Army in August 1954.
He is remembered with love by his two sons, John Stephen and his wife Anastasia of Grafton; Alex George, his wife Lisa and their son AJ of Agawam; in-laws; god-children; nieces; nephews; and a host of long-time friends. His wife of 49 years, Marlene (Haddad) Efstratios, predeceased him on October 17, 2010. He also was predeceased by two brothers, Strati Efstratiou and Stephen Stratton and a sister, Statia (Efstratios) Zoulas.
Mr. Efstratios was born in Worcester, the son of John and Chrysoula (Stefanou) Efstratios. He graduated from Commerce High School and Worcester Junior College, where he earned an AA degree in Business Management. He began his career in accounting at Jaffee Associates and went on to become a successful business owner in Worcester for 30 years. He founded and co-owned T-Bird Pizza, a landmark on Park Avenue, and was involved in other successful businesses in the area.
He was an active member of St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral and dutifully volunteered in many groups. He was a tenor in the Cathedral choir and served on the inaugural Grecian Festival committee in 1976, where he led the raffle. He also was a member of the Parish Council, the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), its junior order the Sons of Pericles, the Hellenic Arts Society, and the Guiding Lights Masonic Lodge.
He adored his sons and much-loved grandson. Beyond his family, he enjoyed reading the newspaper, playing basketball and a good game of Pinochle or Gin Rummy. He was an avid golfer, sports fan and traveler. He frequently vacationed in Bermuda, Florida and Maine with his beloved wife, family and friends. He was a very independent, generous and elegant man with a great sense of humor.
Calling hours for Mr. Efstratios will be held from 5:00 until 8:00 pm on Thursday, July 16th, at O’Connor Brothers Funeral Home, 592 Park Avenue. His funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, July 17th, at St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Hope Cemetery.