Efthimios Economou, a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, peacefully passed away on Monday, January 15, 2024, at 85.
Born on June 15, 1938, in the small village of Miliotadis – Demati, Ioannina, Greece, to Michael and Vasiliki Economou, he was the eldest of four siblings and the only son, with sisters Maria, Glykeria, and Demetra. Life was challenging during World War II and the Greek Civil War as they lived in the mountainous region of Zagori, facing financial hardships and limited educational opportunities.
Encouraged by his grandfather, Kostas Economou, Efthimios pursued a better life in America. Initially met with reluctance from his parents, he persisted, and in 1955, he arrived in Philadelphia, sponsored by his uncle Nicholas Angelis. Determined to support his family, he worked diligently and saved money.
In 1964, during a visit to his parents, Efthimios met Athina Staparounas. Within three weeks, they were married. After a brief honeymoon in Athens, Efthimios returned to America to prepare for Athina’s arrival. In 1965, they became parents to their son, Michael, and soon welcomed twin daughters, Vasilike and Demetra. Over the years, they sponsored many others to come to America, creating a welcoming community for newcomers.
Efthimios’s selflessness extended to his family and the broader community. He worked tirelessly to provide a brighter future for his children and was a devoted husband, working with his wife to achieve their dreams. He created a tight-knit “village” at 21st and Race Street in Philadelphia, reuniting his extended family.
As a father, Efthimios provided a positive role model, prioritizing faith and heritage in the family. As a grandfather, he showered his grandchildren with love and shared wisdom through stories. His presence will be deeply missed.
Efthimios is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Athina; his children Michael (Amelia), Vasilike (Vasilios) Kitsios, Demetra, and grandchildren Kyriaki Bouikidis, Georgia (Victor) DeLomba, Athina Bouikidis, Yianni Bouikidis, Eleni Kitsios, Katerina Kitsios, Athina Economou, Konstantina Economou, and Efthimios Economou.
May our beloved Efthimios rest in peace. Funeral arrangements include a viewing on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, from 10 am to 11 am at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Upper Darby, followed by the funeral service from 11 am to 12 pm. Interment will be at Laurel Hill West Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd, PA.