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THEOPHILOS ARAVANIS Obituary


THEOPHILOS J. ARAVANIS "Phil"  
The Officers, Board of Trustees, and membership of the Silver Spring Volunteer Fire Department sadly mark the passing of member Phil Aravanis, age 75, on July 23, 2015. He leaves his wife, Sara; son, Geoffrey; two brothers, George and Jerry, and loving relatives. A graduate of Montgomery Blair High School, a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division in Germany and returned to the United States where he was employed by the Silver Spring Fire Department. While battling a residential fire in 1962, he was trapped and rescued by his fellow Brothers. Badly burned, he lost his fingers, but not his resolve to be a productive member of his society. Professionally, Phil retired after a 30 year career as a U.S. Government Contracting Officer in several departments. He coached Montgomery Soccer, Inc. and was an honored volunteer with Walter Reed Medical Center "Ward 57" assisting amputees and remained with the SSFD Retirees Group. In recognition for his love for companion dogs, memorials may be made to any local animal shelter or rescue program. The family plans a private memorial celebration of his life to be held at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Aug. 2, 2015.

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Tony

July 27, 2025

Rakasans Phil. Full canopy.

Nephew Kevin D Downey

August 7, 2015

I can remember Phil catching a beebee in his teeth that had been shot in the wrong direction by one of his many nephews. He had a beautiful singing voice and would sing in a barbershop quartet. Thank you, Phil, for your service to us- our country AND our world.

Laura Hollinsworth

August 6, 2015

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Nancy Downey

August 6, 2015

Phil is a hero to all who knew him. He was always smiling and upbeat! He always knew how to make people happy. We will miss you very much. Whenever I make a cherry pie I will think of you and smile. Love to Sara and Geoffrey! May God watch over you!

Dee Ager

August 4, 2015

To my beloved cousin who we will miss I have such great memories when we were kids I love you Phil

Malcolm Wilson

August 3, 2015

What a great neighbor and friend. The "dog whisperer" and baklava maker. My family is truly saddened by the loss and our thoughts and prayers are with Sara and Geoffrey. The first guy to greet us when we moved in and a constant dog walking companion. Peace my friend. Thanks for all you did in service to your country and your community. A truly special man!

Tony McCollam

August 2, 2015

I hardly knew you Phil but I do remember you from the 187/82nd at Ft. Bragg. I was up the street in the 501.

I'm glad you enjoyed such a productive life. Rest in peace and my sincere condolence to your family.

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