Alexandros Giolekas, 86, of Worcester, passed away peacefully on September 16th at St. Vincent Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 57 years, Eleni; his son, Angelo, and his wife, Yeoryia, whom he loved like a daughter; and his pride and joy, his three grandchildren, Eliana, Alexander, and Maks.
Born in Finiki, Epirus, Greece, Alexandros attended school to study furniture making before serving in the Greek Army. After marrying his wife Eleni, in 1969, he immigrated to the United States, where he began working alongside many fellow Greeks at Table Talk Pies. Throughout his life, he worked at several pizza shops and eventually owned his own restaurant, Pizza Chef, in Amsterdam, New York.
After retiring, “Papou” looked forward to picking up his grandchildren from school, where he was always first in line, eager to see their faces. A stop for donuts on the way home became part of their special routine—a simple memory they continue to cherish. His grandchildren were his greatest blessings, and the time he spent with them brought him endless happiness.
Alexandros loved gardening and was an avid fisherman. He would walk miles to find the perfect fishing spot, where he could enjoy the peace and quiet of nature and the simple
joy of being outdoors.
He was a devoted member of Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the Saint Spyridon Seniors Group, and the Order of AHEPA. He especially enjoyed spending time with his lifelong friends at AHEPA, where many great memories were made over card games, laughter, and friendship, which he continued to reminisce about until the day he passed.
Alexandros will always be remembered for his great smile, his big blue eyes (yes, that's where Eliana gets them!), his sense of humor and joking nature, but most of all, the love he gave to his family and friends. His presence brought warmth and happiness to everyone around him, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Critical Care Unit at St. Vincent Hospital for their compassionate care and support during this difficult time.
His visitation will be held on Saturday, September 19th, at Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street, Worcester, from 1:00 p.m. until the beginning of his funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Hope Cemetery,
119 Webster Street.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
O’Connor Brothers Funeral Home, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester, is assisting the family with arrangements.