Gregory James Skedros

1928 - 2022

Gregory James Skedros

1928 ~ 2022

On January 27th, 2022 we lost Gregory (93) to a short and unexpected illness complicated by advanced age. Gregory was born July 30, 1928 in Salt Lake City Utah to Greek immigrant parents. He learned his work ethic as a young boy helping his brother Constantine support their family after the passing of their father in 1940. He graduated in the first Pharmacy class at the University of Utah and served as a US Air Force officer in the Philippines during the Korean War. After returning home he married Jenny Pappas from Phoenix, Arizona. They were married in 1957 and started a family shortly thereafter. Gregory and Jenny moved to Bountiful in 1961 with their young family where Gregory opened Mountain View Pharmacy. His corner Drug Store became a fixture in the community and a haven for the young and old. His unique charm and charisma, as well as his true concern for his customers, created lifelong relationships that still exist today.

Gregory's life took an interesting twist at the age of 50, when he decided to open a Chinese restaurant. This bold decision stretched the family to its limits as Gregory continued to work the pharmacy while Jenny and his five children managed the Restaurant. Gregory's attention to detail and exceptional palate, including mastery of all sauces, were key in the early days at the restaurant. He inspired and mentored hundreds of young people who learned much by witnessing his impeccable work ethic and good humor. His ability to remember his customers names was legendary and a significant part of building his business. This labor of love went through many evolutions before becoming the renowned, iconic experience that it is today. "Mr. Mandarin" could be seen on a nightly basis talking with his customers, making sure they enjoyed their meals. He was the consummate host. Gracious, kind, and quick to give his customers dessert "on him".

His life in the Greek Orthodox Church was highlighted by commitment and service to his community. He and Jenny founded the Greek Festival in Salt Lake City which is considered by many a "bucket list" event, and also "The Taste of Greece", which served as a community gathering and fundraiser. He served for many years on the Parish Council and was president of the Holy Trinity Choir until his passing. He generously donated the lead gift for the Cornerstone Campaign to build a new Community Center downtown. He loved his Church and tirelessly worked to make a difference.

Gregory suffered one of the greatest tragedies of life when his 32 year old son died suddenly from a heart condition. Although this occurred 25 years ago, he never went a day where he didn't think of Anthony and what could have been.

He is survived by his children, Tykie (Georgette) Skedros, John (Maria) Skedros, Katina (Dave) Skedros- Temme, Angel (Paul) Manfredini, as well as his true joy in his later years, his grandchildren: Gregory, Katerina, Jenny, Sophia, Alex, Gigi, Athan, Kora, Jack and Henry.

Gregory is at peace. We all smile and feel his joy as he reunites with Mama and Andoni.

The family is very concerned about the safety of those wishing to pay their respects to Gregory, and respectfully asks for those attending these functions to be mindful of high health risk individuals who loved Greg and would like to pay their respects in an environment that is as safe as possible. Masks are strongly encouraged.

Viewing/Lying in State: Thursday February 3rd, Noon to 8pm. Holy Trinity Cathedral, 279 S 300 W, Salt Lake City. Trisagion service at 7pm.

Funeral: Friday February 4th, 11:00 am, Holy Trinity Cathedral. The funeral will be private (family only), but available to the public via Zoom through The Greek Orthodox Church of Salt Lake City Facebook page or the Church website: GOCSLC.com.

Internment: Mt Olivet Cemetery, 1342 E 500 S, Salt Lake City

Celebration of Life: To be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Anthony Skedros Memorial Foundation, PO Box 88, Bountiful Utah, 84011-0088 or the Cornerstone Campaign, Holy Trinity Cathedral, 279 S 300 W, SLC UT 84101.