Peter Elias Eliopoulos

Peter Elias Eliopoulos formerly of Lowell; 85 Palm Bay, FL Peter Elias Eliopoulos, age 85, passed away peacefully with family and friends in Palm Bay, Florida on September 19, 2008. For those who knew him, he will be remembered by his trademark cigar in hand and fedora hat. He loved horse racing, boxing and reading. He hated banks, insurance companies and most attorneys. He perceived the medical profession as "one big racket" and often captivated people with his extraordinary storytelling. Although most of his stories were based on life experience he was not one to let the facts stand in the way of a good tale. He is survived by his first wife of 35 years, Eleanor McGarry, and their two children, Elaine and Peter Eliopoulos, both of MA. Later residing in the Dominican Republic, he married his current wife Belkys Eliopoulos. Their two children, Gibran and Laney Eliopoulos, reside in Palm Bay, Florida. He is also survived by his sister Bessie Natsios, of Lowell. He was the brother of the late Ethel Eliopoulos, Pauline Hollis, twin brother Christos, and brothers Jim and George Eliopoulos. He is survived by three grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and too many friends to mention. Peter was born and raised in Lowell and was a graduate of Lowell High School. He was raised Greek Orthodox, spoke fluent Greek and was proud of his heritage; he had many friends in and out of the Greek community. He was a World War II veteran, stationed in the Pacific Theater. Throughout his life he ventured into various fields of employment, all centered around sales. He was but not limited to, a boxing manager, pickle and tobacco salesman, restaurant owner, car salesman, landlord, roofing contractor and engaged in currency exchange while residing in the Dominican Republic. Age did not deter him. He was employed as a used car salesman at A & A motors in Palm Bay, FL until the time of his death. Proud of his disdain for authority, he once created his own baseball little league, in the Town of Tyngsboro, because he claimed the town's leagues were too regimented. He stressed the importance of sports for fun and was a pioneer in the 70's, allowing boys and girls to play on the same team. He was known to give a struggling kid an extra strike and openly told any parents who objected where to go. He eventually settled in Palm Bay, Florida. His leisure time was spent walking and reading; he read many books while sitting at Barnes and Noble but rarely ever purchased one. Just one day prior to his death, in poor health, he made a specific request for a newspaper and a donut. After being asked what kind of donut, he said, "Jelly and a honey dip make it two jelly and a honey dip. I might not be here tomorrow." Donations may be made in honor of Peter Eliopoulos to: William Childs Hospice, 381 Medplex Parkway NE, Palm Bay, FL. 32907.