WORCESTER-Alexander E. Drapos, 70, a lifelong resident of Worcester passed away peacefully, Monday, July 10th, following a courageous battle with cancer. At his passing he was surrounded by his extended family and closest friends. Mr. Drapos was a friend to many, a great humanitarian, and a generous, gracious soul who always gave back to the community he loved. He is survived by his sisters, Athena Tsoules of Worcester and Helen, wife of Peter Rougas of Paxton; a brother, Arthur and his wife Marilyn Drapos of Onset, and his close friend Kam Ip. Two brothers Nicholas and James Drapos predeceased him. He will be missed by his many nephews, nieces and godchildren.
He was born in Worcester the son of Evangelos and Theodora (Liazos) Drapos. Mr. Drapos was a graduate of Classical High School and Clark University where he was president of the student body and his fraternity, Lamda Chi Alpha. He earned his doctorate in jurisprudence from Duke University. Alex practiced law in the city for 45 years, specializing in immigration and entertainment law. He was a director with the law firm of Fletcher, Tilton and Whipple, for nearly 20 years. Prior to joining Fletcher, Tilton and Whipple, he was a partner with the law firm of Teshoian, Greenberg and Drapos, and also served as an Assistant Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He was a communicant of St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, and a member of the Worcester County Bar Association and the American Immigration Lawyer’s Association.
Long interested in community progress and service, he served in many boards and as a trustee in many organizations. He was the acting president and chairman of the board of the Worcester Business Development Corporation. Mr. Drapos also served as the former chairman of many other organizations, including the American Farm School in Thesalonika, Greece; the Worcester Area Chamber of Commerce; the Worcester Regional Research Bureau; the Hellenic Arts Society; and the Worcester Cooperative Council. He also served on the boards of First Massachusetts Bank, TD BankNorth MA; the Fallon Clinic; the Fallon Foundation, Clark University, St. Vincent Hospital; Alpha-Omega Council; Quinsigamond Community Foundation; the order of A.H.E.P.A., the United Way of Centeral Massachusetts, the Foothills Theater; and the New England Repertory Theater.
Alex had a passion for the arts, music and travel and shared these joys with his friends and family. Among his joys were days spent at Onset Beach, especially enjoying summer weekends. He will long be remembered for his wit, his love of life and his care and concern for others.
The funeral is Wednesday, July 12th with a service at 10:30 AM in St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street. Burial will be private. Calling hours are Tuesday, July 11th from 4:00 until 8:00 PM and Wednesday from 9:30 until the time of the funeral at the Cathedral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Farm School, 1133 Broadway, Suite 1625, New York, NY 10010. O'CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue is directing arrangements.