Spiros Kontogiannis

Dec. 20, 1958 - Aug. 24, 2013
Spiros Kontogiannis, a successful restaurateur and community supporter, was welcomed by the heavenly angels on Saturday, Aug. 24. Spiros was passionate about life, family, and friends. He epitomized the expression "larger than life", even throughout his long illness. He lived for 54 eventful years. He died as he had lived … surrounded by friends and family.
Spiros was born in Athens, Greece to Vasileios Kontogiannis and Athena Konstantinopoulos (deceased). His stepfather, Athanasios Konstantinopoulos resides in Fairfield, Calif. He arrived in the United States when he was seven years old. He spent his early years in Encino, Calif. and moved to Fairfield in 1993. He lived his life passionately, with the respect and admiration of many. He was an adventurous traveler, avid motorcycle rider, spectacular food critic, and spirited conversationalist. More than anything, Spiros relished being encircled by family and friends.
He is survived by his lovely wife and daughter, Shelly and Yvette. Spiros and Shelly were married for 28 unforgettable years, full of … love, debates, laughter, success, and glorious memories. Yvette has inherited his good humor and lively spirit. His siblings include: Eleni Konstantinopoulos, Harry Konstantinopoulos, and George Konstantinopoulos. He also leaves behind adoring nieces (Alexis and Lacey) and nephews (Hayden and Anson), extended family, and friends.
Spiros Kontogiannis was a general contractor and prominent local business owner. He created a sense of family and community at the Suisun restaurant, the Athenian Grill. He was a local sports' program supporter and local political 'enthusiast'.
The family wishes to thank all of those who lovingly cared for Spiros, including the Kaiser Oncology Department staff.
The family will hold a visitation event on Wednesday, Aug. 28 from 5 to 7:30 p.m., at Bryan Braker Funeral Home, 1850 West Texas St., Fairfield.
A memorial service is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 29 at 3 p.m., at the Greek Orthodox Church, Saints Constantine and Helen, 1224 Alabama St., Vallejo 94590.
Interment will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Glendale, Calif.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Greek Orthodox Church, Saints Constantine and Helen, 1224 Alabama St., Vallejo 94590.
Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day.
Unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed and very dear. Anonymous.