James Efstratiou passed away peacefully at the Melrose-Wakefield Hospital. He was 85.
Born and raised in Somerville, he was the son of the late Peter and Helen (Konaka) Efstratiou. After graduating from high school, James served in the US Army. After his discharge, he then embarked on a long career with Draper Laboratory. As an electronic and thermal technician, James was involved in some of the most significant projects of his time, including the Trident and Apollo Programs, the Space Shuttle and Space Station. A Somerville resident for many years, he lived over 40 years in Saugus and spent many summers in Mattapoisett. James enjoyed travelling, with family and friends and was a member of the Order of Masons for 50 years.
The beloved husband of the late Phyllis C. (McKenzie) Efstratiou, James was a devoted father of Sandra Efstratiou of Lynnfield, Diane DiCocco and her husband Riccardo of Virginia, and Mark Efstratiou and his wife Kathleen of Billerica. He was a loving grandfather to Joseph, Alexandra and Ariana DiCocco and Alex, Matthew, Kaylie and Alexis Efstratiou. He was a dear brother of the late Bessie Efstathopoulos.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit with the family at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford, on Tuesday, 4 -7 PM. A funeral service will be conducted in the funeral home on Wednesday, May 19th at 10 AM. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett. Please follow social distancing protocols while attending.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in James' name to the Alzheimer's Association, 309 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham, MA 02452.