Anthony S. Gouletas

In Loving Memory of

Anthony S. "Tony" Gouletas

August 26, 1932 – September 22, 2025

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Anthony S. Gouletas, known to family and friends as Tony, was born on August 26, 1932, in San Francisco, California, to Stephanos and Despina Gouletas. He grew up surrounded by strong family ties and faith, which shaped the man he became.

At the age of 14, after the passing of his father, Tony began working to help provide for his mother and younger brother. He sold newspapers and magazines, showing responsibility and determination well beyond his years. This experience made him a very generous tipper with his paperboy, an act of empathy that reminded him of his own difficult beginnings and wanting to give back.

Tony worked most of his life as a Truck Driver and later ended his career as a Butcher Clerk. He never complained, always choosing to see the good in everything and everyone.

Tony heard about the love of his life Stamatoula (Tula) from her sister, Voula, who showed him a picture of her. They started exchanging letters and he was soon determined to marry her. He set his heart on traveling to Greece and with the help of his boss, Greg, who lent him the money for the trip, Tony made the journey and faithfully repaid him week by week.

On September 13, 1959, Tony married Tula. He was a devoted husband and together they shared 66 wonderful years of marriage, raising a family built on love, laughter, and tradition. Their marriage was admired by everyone who knew them and stood as a true testament to lasting love and devotion. Tony was also a loving and dedicated father and especially loved being a Papou to his grand and great-grandchildren.

Tony was a steadfast Greek Orthodox Christian and supported his church in every way he could. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he lived each day guided by love, devotion, and service.

His pride and joy was his classic 1968 Chevrolet Impala, which he loved to show off to everyone. Tony loved working on cars, but when "computers" came along, he laughed and said he was done. He enjoyed collecting coins and was a true game show enthusiast, faithfully watching The Price is Right, Wheel of Fortune, and Jeopardy. He had a gift for remembering the prices of food and rarely got them wrong. He also enjoyed being the family photographer, always ready to capture special moments and memories.

Music was another of his greatest joys. He collected records and albums, with favorites including Johnny Cash's Folsom Prison Blues and The Doors, Light My Fire. Though he never danced, Tony loved listening to Greek music, tapping his foot and snapping his fingers to the rhythm.

Tony was known for his sense of humor. He was a true jokester, always ready with a quick wit or funny story. Even in his final days, he never lost his gift for laughter. If you asked him, "Do you have a joke for me?" - he always did. His joy lifted spirits and brought comfort to those around him.

Tony's life was defined by love, faith, family, and laughter. He was deeply proud of the family he built, and he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, joy, and devotion that will live on through everyone who was blessed to know him.

Tony always cherished Tula's cooking, and his very last meal was one of her home-cooked dishes - his favorite - a touching reminder of the comfort and love they shared throughout their life together.

In his final days, Tony was surrounded by the unwavering love and care of his family. His devoted wife, Tula, spent countless hours at the hospital by his side, never letting a day pass without being with him. Their daughter, Linda, lovingly drove her mother to the hospital each morning and brought her home each evening. The grandchildren also stepped in, assisting their Papou and preparing meals for the family. Together, they ensured Tony's final days were filled with love, comfort, and dignity.

He is survived by his loving wife Stamatoula (Tula); his daughters Linda McGrue and Debbie Reece with her husband David; his grandchildren Angel, Aliyah (Fiancé Anthony), Alexander, and Zechariah; and his great-grandchildren Anthony, Olivia, and Christian. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved him dearly. Tony was preceded in death by his father Stephanos, his mother Despina, and his brother Angelo.

Today, we celebrate 93 years of a life well lived - a life filled with love, faith, humor, and joy. Though our hearts are heavy with his passing, we carry his memory forward with gratitude, laughter, and love.

Pall Bearers:

Anthony Hensley, Sawyer Smith, Zechariah Reece, Alexander Reece, Anthony Walker, Yanni Kotsakis, Sotere Kotsakis, Niko Kotsakis.