John Grames

John "Johnny" Grames died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Bellingham, Washington, on September 6, 2012. John was born in Anchorage, Alaska, his home for 50 years, and also lived in British Columbia, California and Washington. John grew up playing basketball and baseball, and was an avid sports fan for his entire life.

He was always politically active and ready for discussion-or protest-to support his beliefs. He even created his own political party and ran for U.S. Congress. He was a fixture at courthouses and council meetings. John was passionate about music, especially jazz. He was fiercely proud of his Greek heritage and was fascinated by mythology and eastern philosophy.

For all who knew or met John, he was clearly one of a kind, and lived his life according to his own rules. He leaves behind a rich legacy of stories and anecdotes that reflect his deep feelings for family, friends, food, politics, nature, sports, controversy and mischief. Making friends (and enemies) wherever he went, he never passed up an opportunity for adventure or to support an underdog. Just a week before he died, John was riding around Bellingham on his bicycle; it was a sudden and unexpected departure.

According to his wishes John's ashes will be placed in Anchorage, Alaska, near his mother (Krisoula "Goldie" Grames/Tsakres), his father (John Sultan) and his step-father (George Grames).

John is survived by his five sons: Johannes, Dinos, Panos, Kristos (sons of Alda Grames) and Leikos (son of Laura Elguezabal), and six grandchildren, Jordan, Miles, Sirus, Zoe, Elias and Joshua.

In lieu of flowers, get in touch with an old friend, attend a political rally or send a story about John Grames to jgrames1936@gmail.com. There will be a public celebration of his life. For more information please contact the above e-mail.