John Gravanis , February 11, 1936 — December 14, 2018

John Gravanis, 82, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on December 14,2018. Born in Amfilochia, Greece to the late Constadinos & Anastasia Gravanis, he immigrated to the United States in 1956 to make a better life for himself and his family. He settled in New Bedford, MA where he worked several jobs along with his sister to help bring the rest of his family here.

In 1966 he moved to Hartford, CT and married his loving wife of 53 years, Aspasia Zotos. John worked at Arrow Hart in Hartford as an inspector for eight years before he became an operations manager at Aetna. In 1976 he moved his family to Chicopee, MA where he embarked on a long career as a restaurateur.

He operated Spiro’s Pizza with his wife and children for 22 years. Upon retiring, he devoted his time to his family & church. John served on the St. George Cathedral Parish Council, was a member of the St. George Over 60 Club and was a tireless souvlaki cook for the Glendi for many years.

He was persuaded to come out of retirement and helped operate Checkards Sports Pub and BruBurger Restaurant, both in Feeding Hills, MA with his family. John enjoyed bowling and watching his beloved Red Sox. John is survived by his wife Aspasia, and leaves behind his two sons, Dino Gravanis & his wife Stacey of Southwick, MA, Jimmy Gravanis of Feeding Hills, as well as four grandchildren, several godchildren, several nieces & nephews, his sisters Demetra of Prospect, CT, and Irene of Westport, MA.

He was predeceased by his brothers George & Greg and his sister Athanasia. Funeral services for John will be held at St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 22 St. George Rd, Springfield, MA on Tuesday, December 18, 2018. He will lie in repose at the Cathedral from 9:30 am to 11 am with Liturgy to begin at 11 am.

Calling hours at Firtion Adams Funeral Services, 76 Broad St, Westfield, MA will be on Monday, December 17, 2018 from 4 pm to 7 pm. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in his name to the St. George Endowment Trust Fund, 22 St. George Road, Springfield, MA 01104.

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