Phidias G. Dantos

Phidias G. Dantos

hanover, NH - Mr. Phidias G. Dantos, resident of Hanover, New Hampshire, and beloved husband of Alice (Norris) Dantos, passed away peacefully at home on April 30, 2024. He was 91 years old.

Born in Andover, Massachusetts, on January 27, 1933, he was the beloved son of the late George and Evgenia (Gounaris) Dantos. Phidias graduated from Punchard High School in Andover and attended Lowell Textile Institute. He served in the US Navy during the Korean War.

At age 19, Phidias stepped into his father's shoes, partnering with his Uncle Peter as proprietor of the Andover Spa, a marketplace and social gathering institution in Andover, MA. Later, he became a land developer in Massachusetts and in Vermont. As associate developer and general manager, Phid helped make the dream of the Quechee Lakes resort a reality.

Phidias earned his private pilot's license in 1954, later achieved multi-engine and instrument ratings, and flew over 8,000 hours. He also served as Massachusetts Commissioner of Aeronautics.

Phid was known for his warmth and hospitality. He twice owned the Hotel Coolidge in White River Junction, Vermont, where he touched the lives of countless employees, guests, and community members. Phid served as President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. Later in his career, Phidias owned and operated a franchise chain of Au Bon Pain cafés throughout New England.

Along with his many accomplishments, Phidias' life was defined by his kindness, wit, and love of nature. Phidias is survived by his beloved wife, Alice, his loving children, David Dantos of Raymond, NH, Mark Dantos and his wife Lavinia of Boston, MA, Maria Katsaros and her husband Georgios of Brooklyn, NY, and four grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to honor and remember Phid on Thursday, May 2, at Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 71 Chandler Road, in Andover, MA. Visiting hours will begin at 12 Noon, with funeral services to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Vasilios Greek Orthodox Church, 45 Winter Street, Newport, NH 03773.