William A. Tzanakis

William (“Bill”) Tzanakis, 93, passed away on December 26, 2022, in his home surrounded by loved ones. He was born on August 1, 1929, in Toledo, Ohio to Anthony and Olga Tzanakis, immigrants from Greece. Bill met Angeline (Svingos), his wife of 52 years, met at a Greek dance in Toledo, Ohio. They were married in 1961. Bill was born and raised in Toledo, Ohio where he graduated from the University of Toledo. He was drafted into the US Army and served during the Korean War. Upon his return, he worked as an accountant. A true entrepreneur at heart, he then focused on investing in and buying and selling businesses before ultimately opening the Stein ‘N Pitcher in 1968, a restaurant and pub adjacent to the University of Toledo and popular venue for the college students. In June of 1987, Bill sold his businesses and retired. Upon his retirement, he continued volunteering and cultivating his love of cooking. He worked to perfect many of his favorite recipes and was especially known for his rice pudding and variety of soups and chili. Bill was a life-long active member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral where he devoted his time participating in numerous organizations and events including AHEPA, GAPA, Young at Heart and the Greek American Festival. He served on Parish Council for many years as Assistant Treasurer. He enjoyed putting his journalism skills to work as a Hellenic Echo Staff member. His list of volunteer activities was long, varied and distinguished by service to his church and parish. In January 2005, Bill was awarded the Philoptochos Certificate of Merit for his many contributions to the parish. Bill is survived by his daughters, Maria Tzanakis, Tina Tzanakis, Toni Tzanakis; his Niece, Becky (John) Skiadas, Nephew, Tony Arvanitis, many special great and great-great nieces, nephews and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his wife Angeline, sister Mary (Peter) Arvanitis, brothers James, Homer & Harry Tzanakis. A special thank you to many family members and friends, the staff and caregivers at Ohio Living Hospice, Promedica Home Health and Comfort Keepers for the excellent care he received. Friends are invited to visit on Thursday, December 29 from 9:00-11:00AM at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral. The funeral service will begin thereafter at 11AM with Reverend Larry Legakis, officiant. Interment at Toledo Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers her family asks that donations be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral Memorial Fund https://www.holytrinitytoledo.com/donate/.

William A. Tzanakis

August 1, 1929 - December 26, 2022