WORCESTER-John G. Photakis, 51, of 53 Winifred Avenue, formerly of New York City, died Wednesday April 3rd from injuries sustained as a result of an automobile accident. He leaves his wife of 22 years Lisa B. (Caplin) Photakis, his son Zachary A., and his daughter Ariana C. Photakis both of Worcester; his parents George and Sophia (Boretos) Photakis of Holden; his sister Connie Blake of Hyannis, several nephews, nieces and a great nephew.
Mr. Photakis was born in Worcester, and had lived in New York City for several years before returning to Worcester in the mid 70’s. He was co-owner of the Owl Shop with his father. Mr. Photakis was an artist, sculptor, inventor and an accomplished pipe maker. He invented, produced and marketed the Tee-Gar, a device used by golfers to rest their cigars while golfing. Mr. Photakis was an avid car enthusiast, he belonged to the Wachusett Old Car Club, and had formed a local Fiat Owners Group. For years he promoted Race Worcester, an attempt to make Worcester a venue for Indy type racers utilizing the streets as the racing circuit. He was also active in fund raising for the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.
The funeral will be Friday, April 5th with a service at 10:00 AM in O’Connor Brothers Funeral Home, 592 Park Avenue. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Calling hours are Thursday, April 4th from 4:00 until 8:00 PM, and Friday, April 5th from 9:00 AM until the time of the service, in the funeral home. Flowers may be sent or contributions made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, P. O. Box 650309, Dallas, TX 75265.