Emanuel Boutzoukas

BOUTZOUKAS, Emanuel (Manoli)
July 7, 1933 – June 9, 2022
It is with deep sorrow that the family of Emanuel "Manoli" Boutzoukas announce his peaceful passing on June 9th, 2022, at the age of 88 years old. Leading an exemplary life, filled with hardship, integrity, and love, his life began in the village of Ano Meros of Crete, Greece – a place he remained deeply connected with. During WWII, at the tender age of 11, the village was burned to the ground, he lost his father, and Manoli began working to support his mother and siblings. The villagers recognized him as a young man with impressive work ethic and supported him in learning the trade of a coppersmith; he was able to offer his services to families in the neighboring villages. He left for Athens at 17 years old and, using his engaging personality and persistent nature, he persuaded the Navy to accept him at an early age. Upon completion of his service with the Navy, he worked as merchant marine and quickly assumed the rank of Boatswain or Bosun – the highest position on the ships' deck. After 6 years of service, he landed in New York City, and received support from the Cretan chapter of Omonoia in building a life in America. In 1960, Manoli met Asimenia Mantzourakis, whom he fondly referred to as his "sweetheartie", and together they raised their children, James and Michael. In 1977, they moved to Florida in search of a better place to raise their sons. Soon thereafter, Manoli became active in the KPHTH Chapter of the Pancretan Association of America and served multiple terms as president. He oversaw the purchase and construction of the chapter's home in Palm Harbor, FL, where his children, grandchildren, and now great-grandchildren spend their time honoring and continuing the culture and traditions of Crete – of which, he was so incredibly proud. Manoli leaves a legacy of courage, honor, and compassion and expressed a deep love for his family and friends. He was well-known for his hearty handshake, and his warm smile comforted us all.
Manoli is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 62 years, Asimenia Boutzoukas, and children, James (Mia) Boutzoukas and Michael (Christine) Boutzoukas. He was grandfather to Maria Boutzoukas, Asimina (Thanasi) Pantazelos, Joanna Boutzoukas, Angelique (Bradley Taber) Boutzoukas, Emanuel J. Boutzoukas, and Emanuel M. (Yanna Pantelis) Boutzoukas. He was great grandfather to Peter and Christiana Pantazelos.
Manoli will be missed by all of those that were blessed to have known him. May his memory be everlasting.
The Funeral Arrangements are as follows:
Tuesday, June 14, 2022
10:00 am - visitation at Holy Trinity Church, 409 Old Coachman Road, Clearwater
11:00 am - Trisagion Service at Holy Trinity
11:20 am - Family Shared Memories
Immediately thereafter - Funeral Service
At the conclusion of the Funeral Service we will proceed to Curlew Hills Memory Gardens, 1750 Curlew Rd, Palm Harbor, FL 34683.
A Makaria will follow at the Cretan Cultural Center, 1821 Curlew Rd., Palm Harbor, FL 34683.
In Lieu of flowers the family asked that donations be made to the Pancretan Association Scholarship Fund in memory of Emanuel Boutzoukas. Donations can be made online at the direct link https://bit.ly/3NLno0L or if mailed, make payable to PAA, C/O Asimenia Boutzoukas, 634 Edgewater Dr. #242, Dunedin, FL 34698