Fotios Tsoukalas

Fotios Tsoukalas born on February 22, 1935, in Tsoukalaika, near Kalamata, Greece, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2024, at the age of 89 in El Paso, Texas.

Known for his unwavering loyalty to family, deep faith, and strong work ethic, Fotios began working as a shepherd at five and served 15 years in the Greek military starting at age 17. In 1964, he emigrated to the U.S. and settled in El Paso, where he married Bertha Alicia Tsoukalas in 1964, and they had a son, Alexios, in 1970.

Fotios worked as a radar engineer at Raytheon and contributing to the Hawk & Patriot missile system and traveling worldwide. He maintained a strong connection to his Greek heritage by planting tomatoes, and grapevines and growing crops in his backyard. A self-made man, he was known as the "Ouzo Champion," offering guests hospitality and sharing stories.

A devout member of the Greek Orthodox and Antiochian Orthodox Churches, Fotios' faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was proud of climbing Mount Sinai, exemplifying his adventurous and determined spirit. He is survived by his wife, Bertha, son; Alex grandchildren; Luke and Zoe, and extended family in both the U.S. and Greece. A memorial service will be held to honor his legacy of love, faith, and family. The family requests donations to St. Nicolas Greek Orthodox Church in lieu of flowers.

A Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM with a Trisagion Service at 6:00 PM at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 124 S. Festival Dr. A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church.

A Graveside Service will follow at 11:45 AM at Memory Gardens of the Valley in Santa Teresa, New Mexico. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-West.