Theodore "Ted" Georgakopoulos

Theodore "Ted" Georgakopoulos, 78, peacefully departed on November 6, 2023, after a courageous battle with a prolonged medical illness.
Theodore's journey began in the picturesque village of Paraloggi, Arcadia, Greece, in 1945, where he was born to his loving parents, Panayiotis and Maria Georgakopoulos. After serving in the Greek Army, Theodore embarked on a life-changing adventure, immigrating to Akron, Ohio in 1967, following an invitation from his uncle and first cousin, John and Ted Callas. From the outset, he exhibited an unwavering work ethic in various roles, including positions at the Atlantic Foundry Company and the Brown Derby restaurant, where he also honed his English-speaking skills. Theodore nurtured the dream of establishing his own business, and in the mid-1970s he transformed that dream into a reality by founding a real estate investment and remodeling company. He quickly became a successful businessman and continued working hard to provide for his family. Theodore raised four children with his ex-wife, Persefoni Georgekopoulos, and he exhibited immense pride in their accomplishments, as well as those of his grandchildren.
Theodore had a passion for travel, cherished the ritual of sipping Greek coffee, and relished engaging in conversations about politics and current events. He often spoke of his memories of his early years in Akron and the time spent with his friends: Dimitrios Fortseras, John Gomarakis, Pete Pangalos, Alex Bouzas, Louis Barbicas, Ted Diamantis, Emmanuel Manos, Steve Zoumberakis, George Pamboukis, Louis Tsakalis and many others. He embarked on numerous adventures with family and friends and found great joy in the entertainment of Las Vegas and Atlantic City, the warmth of Florida, and the beauty of Greece. He was always an active individual who took great delight in hands-on remodeling or construction, consistently showcasing his resourcefulness.
Theodore will be remembered for his generosity, infectious smile, and sense of humor, which brightened the lives of those around him. Regardless of the challenges he encountered, he maintained an unwavering upbeat attitude and zest for life. He instilled in his children and grandchildren the values of hard work, wise decision-making, and perseverance. He was undoubtedly a one-of-a-kind man, leaving an indelible mark in the hearts of his family and friends.
Theodore is preceded in death by his parents, Panayiotis and Maria (Tsoukalas) Georgakopoulos; brothers Vasilios "Bill" Georgakopoulos and Yiannis "John" Georgakopoulos; his granddaughter, Isabella Koinoglou; stepson Alexandro Tranoulidi and brother-in-law, Kostas Mellas. He is survived by his wife, Kyriaki Georgakopoulos; daughters, Maria (Dr. Nick) Koinoglou and Dr. Angie Georgekopoulos (Dr. Ron Flauto);
sons, Pete (Kimberly) Georgekopoulos and Dr. George (Effie) Georgekopoulos; and grandchildren, Kristina, Alessandra, and Angelina Koinoglou; Elena, Maria, and Alexander Flauto; Andrianna and Sophia Georgekopoulos; Phoebe and Theo Georgekopoulos. He is also survived by mother-in-law Maria Mouratidi of Greece; stepdaughters, Dimitra and Panayiota Tranoulidi of Greece; brothers Sotirios "Sam" (Marsha) Georgakopoulos of Akron, and Andreas (Maria) Georgakopoulos of Greece; sisters Magdalina "Margie" (John) Garner of Akron and Angeliki "Angie" Mellas of Greece; godson Peter Zoumberakis of Canton; devoted nephews Kyriakos and Panayiotis Georgakopoulos and many loving nieces and nephews, cousins, and adored friends.
Funeral service will take place THURSDAY, November 16, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 129 S. Union St., Akron, OH 44304. Friends may call from 10:00 AM until the time of service at the church. Interment immediately following at Mount Peace Cemetery, Akron.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. (www.annunciationakron.org)
Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N Miller Road Akron, OH 44333.
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