Emmanuel Dimitrios Neskes

Emmanuel Dimitrios Neskes, age 76, of Ft. Myers, Florida, passed away at his home surrounded by his wife and children, on September 26, 2023. He was born on November 5, 1946, in Kalymnos, Greece. Emmanuel, also known as Manoli, was a hardworking and generous man who was beloved by his family and friends.

While growing up on the small island of Kalymnos, his parents, Dimitrios and Kaliopi, opened one of the first pastry shops on the island and it was there that Manoli started his lifelong career in the food industry at the young age of 9. He'd often be seen pushing his pastry cart around the island with his brothers during holidays and celebrations.

After serving in the Greek military, he found himself living in Freeport, Bahamas, where for 12 years he worked in catering at the airport and as a chef at the local casino. In his free time, he loved to play soccer and tennis, and traveled throughout the world, including trips to Tarpon Springs, Florida, where he'd eventually meet his wife.

In 1979, Manoli married the love of his life, Nomiki, and later immigrated to Ft. Myers, Florida, to take the position as the Executive Chef of Delphi Restaurant. Soon after, Manoli and Nomiki, along with some of his childhood friends, decided to venture out and open Greek restaurants of their own, including Plaka 2 in Fort Myers, and most notably, Plaka on the Beach on Fort Myers Beach, which they owned and operated for 42 years.

In 1991, together with Nomiki, they opened Nomiki's Plakka in Fort Myers and his family is proudly still serving their local community to this day. With only an elementary school education, dedication, and passion for his work, he achieved his American Dream and became a well-respected figure in the community.

Manoli's Greek Orthodox faith was also an integral part of his life. He was a dedicated and founding member of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, where he actively participated in various activities. One of his most notable contributions was leading the saganaki booth during the annual Greek Festival for over 20 years. Also close to his heart was his village church of Panagia in Kalymnos, where he supported the upkeep, renovations, and festivities.

Outside of work and his religious involvement, Manoli had a passion for hosting his friends and family in his home, playing tennis and soccer, and watching his favorite teams Panathinaikos and the Miami Dolphins. Above all, he loved traveling to his favorite place- Kalymnos. He relished his annual trips; enjoying the company of his childhood friends, and his home and garden in Vothinos- making his own olive oil and olive blends, and harvesting his grapes and their leaves. Being home in Kalymnos bought him immense joy and allowed him to connect with his Greek heritage.

Manoli was an amazing, loyal, and devoted father and is survived by his children: Faneromeni (Terry), Kaliopi (Valanti), Ageliki (Tyler), and Dimitrios (Victoria). He is also survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Nomiki, and his siblings, Panagiotis and Maria. Manoli took great pride in his role as a "Papou" and leaves behind 11 cherished grandchildren.

Manoli Neskes will be remembered as a hardworking and generous man who brought joy and insight to those around him. His dedication to his family, career, and faith leaves a lasting legacy. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A viewing for Manoli will be held on Saturday, September 30th, at 11 AM at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Fort Myers, followed by a Liturgy beginning at noon. Friends, family, and community members are invited to pay their respects and honor his memory.