Andreas Evangelos "Andre" Ninnis

WARREN - Andreas Evangelos Ninnis, age 68, passed away on July 19, 2025, at St. Joseph Hospital in Warren, Ohio, after a courageous battle with lymphoma, which he had fought since October 2022.
Born September 7, 1956 on the island of Kos, Greece to Irene and Evangelos Ninnis, Andreas was raised in Kalymnos until 1965, when his family moved to Warren, Ohio. He carried the spirit of his island home with him throughout his life, especially his deep love for the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
Known to most as Andre, he led a vibrant life marked by many passions and talents. After graduating from Warren G. Harding High School in 1975, he went on to work as a banker, a skilled mechanic, and a water tower painter, a job that suited his adventurous and fearless nature. Whether wearing a tie or coveralls, Andre brought skill and heart to everything he did.
He had a lifelong passion for engines, especially cars and motorcycles, and was a true speed demon who loved to race cars, particularly in his younger days. He also found great joy in flying airplanes, both in the air and through flight simulators. Beyond his love for speed and machines, Andre had a deep interest in history and space. He loved gazing into the cosmos through one of his many high-tech telescopes, capturing distant galaxies through astrophotography-a hobby that fascinated him and brought him joy. A daredevil with a kind and generous soul, Andre was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was selfless and loyal to his family and friends, often described as "best friend" or "brother" by those who knew him. Known for his playful spirit, Andre was a joker and a prankster who loved to bring smiles to those around him. He had a big heart for animals, often taking in strays and giving them a loving home.
Above all else, Andre was a family man. He took immense pride in his children and found his greatest joy in being "Papou" to his beloved grandchildren, whom he adored and absolutely loved to spoil. A big kid at heart, he enjoyed nothing more than getting on the floor to play, laugh, and make memories with them whenever they visited. As an only child, he was just as devoted to his mother as she was to him-a bond of love and devotion that remained unshakable throught his life. As neighbors, they shared daily visits and cherished their time together. Andre's love for his family was the cornerstone of his world and brought him deep comfort and support, especially in his final years. Even as he faced a difficult illness, Andre remained strong in spirit, choosing to make every moment count and to live with purpose, love, and connection.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Anitta Ninnis, whom he married on April 8, 2005; his devoted mother, Irene (Drakogiannakis) Ninnis; his daughters, Renae Ninnis Ruiz (Aldrick Ruiz) of Atlanta, Georgia, and Stephanie Ninnis Cayson (Robert L. Cayson) of Columbus, Ohio; his stepson, Cody Richman (Laurie) of Lacey, Washington; and his stepdaughter, Amanda Douglas (AJ). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Andreas (12), Gabriella (9), and Marina (3) Ruiz; Evangelo (2) Cayson; Alexis and Adleigh Richman; Connor Douglas; and Reese and Riley Armstrong.
Andre was preceded in death by his father, Evangelos Ninnis, and his stepfather, Antonios Kostoglou.
Though his final months were marked by pain and struggle, Andre's strength, courage, and love never wavered. He was taken far too soon and will be missed immensely by all who knew and loved him. His absence leaves a huge void in our hearts, one that can never be filled but will forever remind us of the love and joy he brought into our lives.
Calling hours are 12:00 to 1:00 pm Friday, July 25, 2025 at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 429 High Street N.E., Warren, Ohio 44481. Services will begin at 1:00 pm at the church. All who knew and loved Andre are welcome to attend and celebrate his remarkable life.
Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church.
Arrangements are entrusted to Staton-Borowski Funeral Home, 962 North Road NE, Warren, Ohio 44483, 330- 394-6200. Dedicated To Serving Your Loved Ones. This obituary may be viewed and condolences sent to www.statonborowskifuneralhome.com.