Archie DEFTERIOS

DEFTERIOS, Archie May 12, 1934-October 16, 2011 Archie Defterios was born on the night of May 12, 1934 in Redondo Beach, California to Gerasimos and Ioanna Defterios of Kefalonia and Ithaca, Greece. He had a happy family life and recalled fond memories working as a young man with his parents, brothers and sister growing flowers in the South Bay. He attended Redondo Union High School and then the University of Southern California, where he studied business and joined the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He proudly served in the United States Army as company clerk, Private First Class at Fort Ord, California. Shortly after his service, he took pioneering steps to build the flower business. In the late 1950's, he was among the first to sell fresh-cut flower bouquets to the supermarkets, a novel idea at the time. His career with flowers lasted over 65 years, and evolved into Delta Floral Distributors. He traveled the world in search of the finest flowers and wherever he went at home or abroad, he made new friends. Archie was known for his dependability, gentle yet secure nature, generosity and willingness to help others. He never harbored any ill will and respected everyone. He and his family were active in the Greek Orthodox communities of San Julian Street Church, Saint Demetrios, Saint Katherine, and Saint Sophia Cathedral. We delight in his strong faith, entrepreneurial spirit, positive mindset and sense of humor. His leadership at home and at work is recognized and admired. Above all, Archie was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He leaves behind his dear wife of over 49 years, Georgia and their children - Foti, and his wife Andrea; Christo, and his wife Maria; and Marianna, and her husband Jean Paul Wardy. Their grandchildren, Archer, Eleanna, Gianna and Jean Paul, will keep Papou in their hearts forever. We have in our prayers Gary and Nancy Cremo and their daughters Allie, Adrianna and Olivia and all our family and many dear friends. Archie, a true gentleman with a heart of gold, will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. And, as Archie would say to you, "na se kala." The funeral service will be Saturday, October 22nd at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral at 1324 South Normandie Avenue, Los Angeles 90006. Contributions may be made in Archie's name to the Saint Sophia Cathedral Building Fund.