George T. Lagios

A faithful servant of Christ, devoted husband, cherished father, and proud Papou, George T. Lagios, 85 fell asleep in the Lord on April 10, 2026.

George was the beloved husband of Demetra Lagios, his partner in life and love for 56 years. Together they built a beautiful family: loving father of the late Francene Lagios, Ted (Lisa) Lagios , and Ellen (Ken) Cielocha; treasured Papou of George, Athena, Demetra Lagios, and Francene, Anthony, Alexandra, and Anastasia Cielocha.

Born in 1940 in Vytina, Greece. He served proudly in the Greek Army as a black beret soldier in the Armoured Forces. An early testament to his discipline, leadership, and love for his country. He then worked along side his father in Greece trading horses. He carried his faith, heritage, and strong work ethic with him when he emigrated to the United States in 1967.

He married the love of his life, Demetra in 1969 and raised their family together. In his early years in America George worked various jobs. He became a naturalized American citizen, a moment of great pride. He was most known for his work in the meat industry in Chicago. George was most proud of his accomplishment of owning his own business, Crown Corned Beef. He was an active member as treasurer for the Pan-Arcadian Federation of America.

With the good faith in god, George was given a second chance in life receiving a kidney transplant. Marking 23 years on April 7, 2026. He never took this opportunity for granted. He was forever grateful to his wife Demetra for devoting her life to taking care of him especially the last seven years when his health started to decline.

George was a family man. His dedication to his wife, children, and grandchildren was unwavering. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled—faith, hard work, humility, and devotion to family.

He found joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments: singing, gathering around a table filled with good food, enjoying card games with friends and family as a fun activity, watching greek television and his komboloi always in hand. He loved to travel back to Greece with Demetra, spending time in his birth place and enjoying his beautiful country. George spent the winter months in Florida walking the beach, enjoying the sun, playing bocce ball with friends and spending time with family.

George had a gift for storytelling and a deep knowledge of family roots in Greece. Friends often said, ‘he knew more about their own family history than they did.’ Those who met him often remarked on his kindness, love for family and generosity.

Though he will be deeply missed, his love continues to surround his family and all who were blessed to know him. His memory is eternal, and he will forever live in our hearts.

A Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026 from 9:30-10:30am at Assumption Greek Orthodox Christian Church 601 S. Central Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644 with a funeral service to follow at 10:30am. Interment Elmwood Cemetery and Mausoleum, River Grove, IL.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in memory of late daughter Francene Lagios at Misericordia Heart of Mercy in Chicago.