Thomas G. Cholakis

Thomas G. Cholakis

Thomas Cholakis Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Jan. 16 to Jan. 17, 2008.
Cholakis, Thomas G. NORTH GREENBUSH Thomas G. Cholakis, 73, died suddenly at home on Tuesday, January 15, 2008. Tom was born in Troy, N.Y., the son of the late George and Katina (Dukas) Cholakis, who emigrated from Sparta, Greece. Beloved husband of 48 years to Katherine (Buas) Cholakis; the much-loved father of Nia (John Aretakis) and George (Evangeline); the dear brother of Nicholas (Helen) Cholakis and the late Con. G. Cholakis, whose wife Dassie survives. Tom was the proud grandfather of his cherished grandchildren, John and Katherine Dorothy "Kady". They were the "lights" of his life and they adored and loved him. Tom was the dear son-in-law of Urania Buas and the late Christ Evangelos Buas of Silver Spring, Md.; the dear brother-in-law of Elaine Buas of Silver Spring, Md., Anastasia Ruocco of Baltimore, Md., Evangelos and the late Diane Buas of Silver Spring. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins. Tom was educated in Troy, a graduate of Troy High School and later of Siena College in Loudonville, always remaining a loyal fan to the Siena Saints basketball program. Tom, together with his parents and brothers, operated the Mayflower Restaurant in downtown Troy, a famous spot for high school students and residents of the city. While still a young man, he became active in the Sons of Pericles, the youth group of the American Hellenic Education and Progressive Association (AHEPA), an organization created in 1922 for the enrichment and education of young Greek-American men. His interest and active participation through the years in the "Sons", earned him the status of supreme president. This position prepared him for his involvement in the many phases of his life. As supreme president, he traveled across the country and overseas promoting the goals of the organization. His maturity brought him into the parent organization, becoming president of Local Chapter #306 of AHEPA. He later earned the AHEPAN of the Year Award. Tom was a lifelong member and communicant of St. Basil's Greek Orthodox Church in Troy. His parents were active in the creation of the church in the early 1930s. Tom served on the church board for many years, including serving as past president of the board of trustees, and was active and instrumental in the initial renovation of the church and other church projects over the years, including the recently celebrated 75th anniversary of the church. Tom was an honorably discharged U. S. Army veteran who, after his initial service, was recalled during the Berlin Crisis. His daughter, Nia, was born at Ft. Dix, N.J., while he served there. His lifetime service to the community included 18 years in the Rensselaer County Legislature (including majority leader), Rensselaer County Republican chairman, North Greenbush Republican chairman and longtime town committee member and most recently serving as past president of Capital OTB. Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 18, 2008 at St. Basil's Greek Orthodox Church, 909 River Street, Troy from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. with the Trisagion memorial service to be held at 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 19, 2008 at St. Basil's Greek Orthodox Church at 12:00 noon, followed by interment in the Elmwood Hill Cemetery, Belle Avenue, (off Pinewoods Avenue), Troy. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Thomas G. Cholakis Memorial Fund of St. Basil's Greek Orthodox Church, 909 River Street, Troy, NY 12180. For a private on line guest registry, please visit, www.parkerbrosmemorial.com

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October 12, 2008

Bob Eberle posted to the memorial.

January 28, 2008

Joseph Picchi posted to the memorial.

January 24, 2008

John, Wendy, Lu, and Eva Pipentacos posted to the memorial.

Bob Eberle

October 12, 2008

Dear Cholakis Family,

So sorry to learn of Tom's passing. I met him at our investment club once. A gentleman for sure.

Joseph Picchi

January 28, 2008

So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I have known Tom since our days at Siena in the 1950s. While I was in journalism and he was in politics, we seem to have gotten along just fine. He was very good at what he did.

John, Wendy, Lu, and Eva Pipentacos

January 24, 2008

Dear Kathy, Nia, and George: We were honored to be present at the services for such a wonderful man. We all miss Tommy and struggle to face the reality that he's gone. Our thoughts and prayers will remain with you and your loved ones.

Ruth Lewis

January 23, 2008

I am sorry about your loss. He used to come into True value and we would chat a bit. Cherish the memories, I will

Amy VanDerzee Wiggins

January 23, 2008

Nia and Family

I am very sorry to hear of your Dad's passing, We are thinking of you at this time

Tom Henry

January 22, 2008

To the Cholakis Family
Please accept my sincere condolences on the death of Tom. Tom was always a true friend and mentor to me in my time as Mayor of Rensselaer and throughout my time in politics. His service to the Republican Party and the community were an inspiration to those who followed him in public service.

Robert Palumbo

January 22, 2008

To the Cholakis Family; The New York Racing Association(NYRA)extends our deepest sympathies to your family. Tom was a friend of racing who will be missed. He was a personal friend to me during his time at Capital OTB and I shall miss him and pray for him and your family.

Carl & Phyllis Savarino

January 20, 2008

Kathy,Nia & George
Words can't express our sadness for your family. We all will miss Tom's smiling face at Port Demer. Our deepest sympathy to all. I guess God needed him now.

Scott Nortz

January 20, 2008

To the Cholakis Family: I had only a few brief occassions this summer to meet Tom, but he was a contemporary of my father in State politics. He was passionate about his convictions, a fine man, and fine role model. My condolences to the family.

David Marmer

January 19, 2008

George and Family,

Our deepest sympathies to you all for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

With Sympathy and Love,
The Marmers

George Karayianis

January 19, 2008

Thea Katherine, Nia and George:
We are so sorry for your loss. Tom was a great husband, father and papou and he will be greatly missed by all.
Love,
George, Sharon, Katie, Christie, Nick and Alex Karayianis

Michael & Natalie Mooney

January 19, 2008

Nia & John and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless

Flora O'Malley

January 19, 2008

Nia,
I hope you will find comfort in knowing you and your family are in the thoughts and prayers of others.

Cindra Windover

January 18, 2008

My dearest Nia and family,
I send you my love and deepest sorrow for the lost of your very much loved father. My prayers go out to you and your family.
Love, Cindra and Kasey

Leslie G Braun

January 18, 2008

My sincere sympathy--- I"ve known Tom since the Mayflower-May your memories confort you all

Pagona Manolakis-Brady

January 18, 2008

I am so sorry & saddened to hear about Tom.
My Prayers & thoughts with deepest sympathies are with the Cholakis Family.
From a childhood Friend of many years ago.

Jo Oliver (Russ Oliver's Wife and Family)

January 18, 2008

We are sorry for your loss. Our hearts are with you...

Lisa Thorpe-Fraley

January 18, 2008

Nia & Family:
I am praying you will find hope in God's Word, Strength in His presence, Assurance in His mercy and peace in His love.
So sorry to learn of your Dad's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
With Deepest Sympathy.
Lisa Thorpe-Fraley & Family

Michael & Joanne Stricos

January 18, 2008

Kathy and Family,
Our deepest sympathy on your loss. Tom was a role model both personally and professionally. It was my priviledge to know him the last 35 years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dena Buas

January 18, 2008

Dear Kathy, Nia, and George,
We are deeply sadden by Tom's sudden death. His smile and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
With love and sympathy,
Pete and Dena Buas and the entire family.

Jennifer Epstein

January 18, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

On behalf of the Burns and Epstein Families

Pat Jackson

January 18, 2008

To The Family, I have known Tom for years and have many fond memories of our day's in the senate years ago. Tom was a good man. He will be greatly missed. I'm so sorry I will not be able to attend the services, I am out of state at this time. Rest in peace my friend. Pat Jackson

Pamela Lemme

January 18, 2008

Dear Nia,

I was so sorry to hear of your fathers passing. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers in the coming days and weeks and may your memories comfort you as well through this difficult time.

The Staff of Parker Bros. Memorial Funeral Home

January 18, 2008

Offering our deepest sympathies during this time.

william massry

January 17, 2008

To the Cholakis Family,
Im very saddened by the news of Tom's passing. He was always a friendly and fair man to deal with. I will miss running into him in Lake George.

Patricia

January 17, 2008

We Just want you to know how sorry we are for your loss, and if their is anything we can do,please let us know. Love to all Frank,Patty,Jesse, and Brian

Pearl Sax Schwartz

January 17, 2008

My deepest sympathy to the family. When I lived in Troy (Defreestville) Gus Cholakis was my lawyer and friend. Have fond memories of Gus and Tom. As a teacher in Troy High, I remember Tom as a most personable student with high capabilities. Very well
liked and respected for his energy and devotion to his tasks at hand.
My special thoughts for Gus's family Dassie with whom my daughter Linda and I sat with during Gus's support dinner. Gus and Tom had most devoted family and I also remember their mother who was a most unusual lady.
Met with Tom on occasion when I visited Troy many years ago.
My best wishes to the Cholakis family and I would gladly share my memories with anyone who makes contact........A heart full of memories not to be forgotten

Jim and Frosine Stolis

January 17, 2008

Kathy and Family,
Our deepest sympathies. Tom was a wonderful man, always there to greet you with his winning smile. He will be missed. May his memory be eternal in the minds and hearts of all those he reached out to.

Carol Sullivan

January 17, 2008

Nia and family.
I am deeply saddened by Tom's passing. He was a delight to work with as he was a kind and gentle man. May you be blessed with many fond memories.

Betty Chalachanis

January 17, 2008

Dearest Cathy and Family:
I was very saddened by the passing of your beloved Tom. My memories of Tom are always greeting me with a smiling face and a warm hug. My prayers to you during this most difficult time.

Caroline Connally-Baker AHN Class '83

January 17, 2008

Nia George, and Family,
Deep sympathy and prayers for the entire family at this very difficult time. Let the love of family, friends, and fond memories sustain you . God Bless and Godspeed to your father.

JANET PAUL

January 17, 2008

CHOLAKIS FAMILY,
I WORKED FOR THE CHOLAKIS MANY YEARS AGO AT THE MAYFLOWER,WONDERFUL
PEOPLE,SO SORRY ABOUT TOMS PASSING,
YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS,

Doreen Frank

January 17, 2008

Our prayers are with your family at this very sad time. We had the pleasure to know Tom who was such a special man. The staff at Columbia Physical Therapy remember his smile and were honored to have worked with him. Doreen and Bob Frank

Pam Troue

January 17, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. I know how difficult it is to lose someone you love so much. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. May your loving memories comfort you.

Pam Troue

January 17, 2008

To the entire Cholakis family,

I am so sorry for your loss. I know how difficult it is to lose someone who you love so much. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. May your loving memories comfort you.

Matt Washock

January 17, 2008

To the Cholakis Family,
Please accept the sympathies of the entire Washock family at this difficult time. In the political world, I learned alot from Tom. More importantly, the lessons I learned from Tom helped prepare me for my most important challenge, my family and my career. I will always remember Tom as a positive influence on my personal life. I will miss seeing Tom at our late night meetings at the grocery store. What a funny guy! Please know we are all thinking about you.

PATRICK MANEY

January 17, 2008

Kathy and Family
We are shocked - We are in Florida, but our thoughts are with you. He was a great guy and will be very sadly missed.
Pat and Toni Maney

Merle Farnham

January 17, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cholakis family. Tom was a great person and will be missed by all. God bless.

Renee Martinos-Mozingo

January 16, 2008

Katina and family. Our deepest sympathy for the loss of your loved one. May his memory be eternal. Lambros Martinos and family

Mark Grimm

January 16, 2008

All the Grimms wish to send their deepest sympathies to the Cholakis family. Tom's many years in politics did not change him one bit. He was a down-to-earth, extraordinarily decent man who you could truly trust. He became such a wonderful fixture for us at the Siena games. We are certain there is one more Saints' fan in heaven today. With our thoughts and prayers,

Ellen Roesch

January 16, 2008

Dear Nia and family,

Our deepest sympathy and condolences on your great loss. Your dad was a wonderful man. We shared many fun events, both political and family, over the years. I could always count on his big hug and warm welcome whenever I saw him.

May your loving memories comfort you in your grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Love,

Ellen and Lucy

Susan Stammel-Huffer

January 16, 2008

Kathy and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of saddness and loss.

Lucy Bakerian Morton

January 16, 2008

My deepest sympathy to all the Cholakis Family from a long time friend from way back.

Lucy Bakerian Morton

January 16, 2008

My deepest sympathy to all of the Cholakis Family from a dear friend from way back.

NANCY CORNWELL-CASWELL

January 16, 2008

To the Cholakis family; so sorry to hear of your loss...Thinking of you though words cannot express the thoughts the heart would like to say, still may you know that others care & sympathize today...I remember Tom when he ran the Kins Inn in Troy, my Dad Jim Cornwell worked for him...I also remember when he use to stop in at the Broadway Diner in Menands 30 years ago, I was the hostess for Steve & Teddy.

Chris and Roger Styczynski

January 16, 2008

Kathy, Nia, George,
We are so sad to hear of Tom's sudden passing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless and give you strength in this time of sorrow.

JERRY DEVOE

January 16, 2008

NIA, NICK AND THE ENTIRE CHOLAKIS FAMILY. I AM SO DEEPLY SADDENED BY TOMS PASSING. A GREAT, KIND, GENTLE, FAIR AND UNDERSTANDING FRIEND THAT I WILL NEVER FORGET. WE HAD A LONG STANDING FRIENDSHIP AND GREAT RESPECT FOR EACH OTHER FOR MANY YEARS. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL IN THIS HOUR OF SADNESS, BUT ALL OUR LIVES WERE ENRICHED BY HIS PRESENCE.

Bessie Papastrat & Michael R. Makar

January 16, 2008

Thom was a friendly man who always had a warm welcome for us. I will miss looking for him on our trips to Saint Basil's. No words can convey the loss. Our heartfelt sympathy to you and his family.

Tricia Vielkind

January 16, 2008

Kathy, Nia, George, and family,
We are stunned and so saddened to hear of Tom's passing and were blessed to have seen him at our mother's wake in November. Your entire family is in our thoughts and prayers.
The Vielkinds
David, Paula, Donald, and Tricia

Dan Plumley

January 16, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Karen Fontana

January 16, 2008

Our hearts and thoughts are with you. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Karen and David Fontana and Family

Fr. Robert M. Hoatson

January 16, 2008

Deep condolences to the entire Cholakis Family. Prayers are offered during this time of sorrow and grief. God bless you all.

Fr. Robert M. Hoatson
West Orange, NJ 07052

Eleanor lewis

January 16, 2008

Deepest Sympathy to the family of Thomas Cholakis. He will be deeply missed.
Ellie Lewis

John Thomas

January 16, 2008

Words can not convey our feelings of loss and sadness upon hearing of Tom's passing. My brother Ahepian and our lifelong friend is now with God. To Kathy and the family we extend our heartfelt sympathy and condolences.

John & Georgeane Thomas

Mary Lou Blair

January 16, 2008

Nia, John, Johnny- Our deepest sympathies. Louis and I are both shocked. He was a wonderful person. Please know that your in our thoughts and prayers.
Mary Lou, Louis, & Bianca Blair

Christine Harvey-Berry

January 16, 2008

Frank & I send our deepest condolences to you and your family in this chapter of your life. Please let us know if we can do anything for you.

The Possas and Johnson Families

January 16, 2008

Our love and sympathy go to the entire Cholakis family. Eternal be his memory.

James & Lois Bult

January 16, 2008

Our sincere sympathy to all the family. We were shocked to read of Tom's passing. He will be greatly missed by all.

Betty Coleman

January 16, 2008

I send my sincere condolences for the untimely death of your loved one. May the memory of his devotion to his "Katherine" and family live with you forever.

Janell MacMurray

January 16, 2008

Nia,
My heart breaks for you and your entire family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time of such great sadness.

Jim & Lillian Maltais

January 16, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Esther Viggiani

January 16, 2008

Dear Kathy, Nia and George,I am so sorry to hear about Tom's sudden death. I cannot imagine the depth of your sorrow. My prayers are with you all.

Sheryl MacFarland (Tompkins)

January 16, 2008

I am so sorry to hear about Tom. I grew up thinking of everyone as a second family thanks to my father. You are in my prayers at this difficult time.

Margie Miller

January 16, 2008

May it help to know you are all in our thought's and prayer's. Kevin & Margie

Harry(Dylan) Posporelis

January 16, 2008

Our heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead. May your memories bring you comfort. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Harry and Dylan Posporelis

Don Howe

January 16, 2008

Very sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you.

Don Dybas

January 16, 2008

My personal and deepest sympathies to the Cholakis family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

January 16, 2008

I was so sorry to hear about Tommy s passing. He was a fine man with
many fine qualities. I know he loved his family, his brothers the judge and Nick. He did enjoy his political years in Rensselaer County and he loved the KINGS INN. My deepest Sympathy to the entire family. He is at peace with his parents and Judge Cholakis.
Ellie Lewis

Bob and Dick Weaver

January 16, 2008

Please accept our condolences on the loss of your husband, father, uncle and our good friend.We were stunned yesterday on hearing the news of Tom's passing. We are in Myrtle Beach and will be unable to attend the services.

Neil and Erika Jensen

January 16, 2008

George, Our deepest sympathies. Neil and Erika Jensen

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October 12, 2008

Bob Eberle posted to the memorial.

January 28, 2008

Joseph Picchi posted to the memorial.

January 24, 2008

John, Wendy, Lu, and Eva Pipentacos posted to the memorial.