Denis Nestor Karas

1924 - 2021

Denis Nestor Karas
July 9, 1924 - December 11, 2021
Resident of Orinda, California
Denis Nestor Karas passed away on December 11, 2021, at the age of 97, in Moraga, CA with his wife, Evie, lovingly by his side. Denis was born in Shanghai, China, where he grew up in the International Settlement and French Concession with his parents, Nestor (originally from Thessaloniki, Greece), and Rosa (originally from Kefalonia, Greece), and four brothers Christo, George, Spiros, and Alex. Denis left Shanghai in 1949, becoming a marine engineer on a cargo ship throughout Southeast Asia. In 1952, Denis served as a civilian engineer to United Nations forces during the Korean War and to power plants in Okinawa, Japan. Having lived across many nations, Denis settled in the United States in 1957, where he married his beloved wife Evie of 61 years, had three children, Nestor, Pauline, and Leah, and worked as a mechanical engineer.
Denis was a devoted member of the Greek Orthodox Church, attending liturgy services regularly, serving as Vice President of the Parish Council and President of the local Chapter of the Order of AHEPA. Denis is survived by his wife, Evie, children - Nestor & Lilian, Pauline & Glenn, and Leah & Themis, grandchildren - Alexa, Denise, Denis, Christina, Anna, Georgia, and Sophia, brothers - George and Spiros, and many extended relatives - all of whom loved him dearly
Denis' priority in life was the unconditional love and support of his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and cousin to his many family members – supporting each individual's endeavors in any way that he could. Denis is remembered by loved ones for his generous, optimistic, and entrepreneurial spirit, kind and gentlemanly manner, fascinating life stories, and fun sense of humor. He fostered a deep understanding of Hellenism, world history and international affairs. Referred to as a "walking encyclopedia" by his grandchildren, Denis advocated for the understanding of perspectives from multiple viewpoints. May his memory be eternal.
A Trisagion Service will be held at the Ascension Cathedral in Oakland at 4700 Lincoln Avenue on Tuesday, December 21 at 6pm. Funeral services will be held at Ascension Cathedral on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at 11am. Interment Oakmont Memorial Park, Lafayette, CA. Donations in memory of Denis may be made to the Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 4700 Lincoln Ave., Oakland, CA 94602. For further information please call, Harry W. Greer, Funeral Director (FDR-745).


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