James Elias Learakos, 70, born Demetrios Elias Learakos Jan. 24, 1940 in Athens, Greece, died Saturday, May 29, 2010.
He was a humanitarian who through his many restaurants helped many families and non-profit organizations in need and was always happy to donate food for many great humanitarian causes and church functions.
While residing in Glen Ellyn, Ill., he received an honorary plaque for helping to raise money to build the Peace Museum in Chicago. He was an avid reader of many authors but mostly loved to read the Bible and was well versed on many religious topics.
He loved soccer and also found the time, in his busy life as the owner of multiple restaurants, to coach a grade school soccer team while living in Glen Ellyn. He helped to build the Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox church in Westchester, Ill., during the 1960’s and sat on the first board of the St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Chapel in Gulf Shores.
He was nicknamed the “Golden Boy” at a very young age for his innate ability to warm the hearts and the souls of so many. He was one of the most giving and considerate children of God whose life and bright smile has touched the hearts of so many. He will be deeply missed by his friends and family.
During his last years, he enjoyed helping to raise and play with his twins, Katherine and Alexander, and he was the most happy and energetic person in the world who enjoyed loving on them and laughing with them.
Survivors include his second wife, Dorothy Louise “Dora” Learakos; their 3 1/2 year-old twins, Katherine Alexandra and Alexander Elias; his first wife, Adele Rottet; their three children, Rick, Jim and Nina; and two grandchildren, Jason Alexander and Eric David.
Visitation was held Wednesday, June 2 at Haigh-Black Funeral Home, Ormond Beach, Fla., along with a Trisagion service. Funeral services were held Thursday, June 3 at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church with Father Joseph Samman officiating. Interment followed at Daytona Memorial Park.
The family requests memorial donations be made to St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 134 Halifax Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32118.
Arrangements were made by Haigh-Black Funeral Home, Ormond Beach, Fla.
