John Fragakis

“Big� John Fragakis

Age 77. January 18, 1936 to November 22, 2013

John Fragakis was born in Crete, Greece, where he left at that age of 16 to come to North America. He lived in Montreal, Canada and Los Angeles before coming to San Francisco and finding "Home" and meeting his wife, Athene, who passed away in 2011. They were married for 44 years, and she was the love of his life. John was very proud of his Greek heritage, and known by many as "Big" John for owning a grocery store on Geary and Taylor with the best fruit in the city as well as a Greek kafeneio, where the Greek Culture was preserved and friends could play cards together.  Herb Caen, the famous journalist and a true San Franciscan, once wrote about how incredible was the fruit that John brought to this small store. 

John was known to have a loving heart and giving soul, as many new US immigrants came to John for help, and none were turned away.

John was a beloved husband and father, Papoo to his Grandchildren and valued friend to many in his community and circles. John and Athene are survived by their two children and their families, George and Christopher. George is married to Janette and has three children: John, Grace and Olivia. Christopher is married to Allison and have two children, Solomon and Cassidy.

John is also survived by his Seven Brothers and Sisters: Katina, Elefteria, Georgia, Bobby, Christopher, Jimmy.

Visitation for family and friends will begin at 4 p.m. and a Trisagion Service will be held on Tuesday evening, November 26 at 7:00 p.m. at Duggan's Serra Mortuary, 500 Westlake Ave., Daly City.  The Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday morning, November 27 at 11:00 a.m. at Cathedral Of The Annunciation Church, 245 Valencia Street, San Francisco.  The Committal will follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 1500 Old Mission Road, Colma.