ELIAS P. GYFTOPOULOS Ph.D.

GYFTOPOULOS, Elias P., PhD Age 84 of Lincoln, June 23, 2012. Passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his three daughters. Devoted husband to the late Artemis E. Gyftopoulos, father to Vasso G. Kelly and her husband Hugh of Rowayton, CT, Maro G. Desjardins and her husband Mark of Houston, TX and Rena Gyftopoulos-Shepherd and her husband David of Boston, MA. "Papou" was also survived by his 10 adoring grandchildren, Nicho E. Kelly, Alexander H. Kelly, Theo M. Kelly, Artemis G. Kelly, Daphne B. Desjardins, Chloe M. Desjardins, Elias C. Desjardins, Lucas G. Desjardins, Dante R. Shepherd and Arianna C. Shepherd. Born in Athens, Greece, Elias came to The Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the fall of 1953 as a graduate student. He remained at MIT for his entire career, where he distinguished himself as an outstanding teacher, professor, scientist and innovative thinker. He was a Ford Professor of both Mechanical (1976) and Nuclear Engineering (1970) and Professor Emeritus. Beyond his career as a professor, Elias served on the board of directors of several private companies and non-profit organizations. He also served as an energy advisor to the Greek government. He was an exceptional leader in the Greek community in Boston, advising countless Greek students attending universities in the area. He and his beloved wife were hosts to dignitaries, old friends and new acquaintances alike at their home in Lincoln. Elias was above all a beloved and proud husband, father and grandfather whose happiest moments were shared with his adoring family. Funeral Service, Thursday, June 28 at 10:45a.m. at the Holy Cross Seminary Chapel at Hellenic College-Holy Cross Orthodox School of Theology, 50 Goddard Ave., Brookline. Visiting hours Wednesday, June 27 from 4-8 p.m. in the Holy Cross Chapel. In lieu of flowers, gifts in his name may be made to an educational fund for Greek students in the Boston area to be announced. Interment Lincoln Cemetery, Lincoln. To share a memory or offer a condolencevisit: www.concordfuneral.com Concord Funeral Home Concord, MA 978-369-3388