It is with deep sadness to announce the passing of John Michael Kefalas, 88 years young, on Saturday, September 3, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.

John was born on May 5, 1934, in Kourounia, on the island of Chios, Greece, to parents Michael John Kefalas and Kalliopi Kefalas (Zannis). He was the eldest of four siblings, and the one whose ambition, strength, hard work and determination led him to pursue his dream of creating a better life for himself, and for his family.

Having endured the many hardships of war, famine and depression, John admired the strength and help of the American soldiers that came to aid on the island during that difficult time (WW2). It was the initial driving force behind his ambition and curiosity to leave Greece and go to America.

At the age of thirteen, John dropped out of school, left his family, and moved to the Chora (main town of Chios) where he stayed with a distant uncle, and started working at a small automotive repair shop to learn 'skills'. It was there where he first saw and fell in love with his first American car... A 1950 Chevrolet. That. Was. It. The second driving force behind his ambitious dream.

John set sail and landed in Virginia in 1957. He had $4 in his pocket and several changes of clothes on his back. He worked diligently, day and night, determined to pursue his dream.

After working several odd jobs to make ends meet, he moved to Warren, Ohio, where his extended family welcomed him, and helped him find his first job at a Chevrolet dealership nearby. It was a dream come true. He worked at the dealership by day, and at a small mom-and-pop automotive shop after hours. His strong work ethic, thirst for knowledge and desire to improve his mechanic skills was paramount.

What came next was pure luck...

One day, the owner of this mom-and-pop automotive shop asked John if he would be interested in going to California to help his brother open a second location. Excited about this opportunity, John accepted. It was this opportunity, in 1961, that led him to Pasadena, California, the place he called home for sixty-one years.

John continued to work for the same mom-and-pop shop for several years, later moving on to another automotive repair shop as his 'skills' were impeccable. All the while, his dream of opening his own business continued to brew.

Throughout the duration of his time away from home, John continued to save money, and managed to send money to his family back home. He missed them dearly.

In 1963, John brought his brother George to California. John continued to pursue his dream of owning his own automotive shop one day, while George attended college.

After many years away from his parents and other siblings, John went back to Greece to visit in 1968. During this trip home, he was introduced to his now beautiful wife, Evelyn Kefalas (Apostolakis). They were married in January 1969.

Later that same year, October 1969, John proudly opened his own shop, JK Automotive Service (now, JK Volvo Specialists) located in Pasadena, California. Shortly thereafter, his children, Kalliopi (Kellie) and Mike were born. And in between, he proudly brought his parents over from Greece, followed by his brother Mody. His sister Maria was the only one who stayed back, as she had gotten married to her loving husband, Demetri. But John looked forward to traveling to Greece every summer with his family to visit her and her family, along with many other relatives and dear friends.

A longtime member of Saint Anthony's Greek Orthodox Church in Pasadena, John was actively involved in his church community. He served on the Parish Council and proudly made 'magiritsa' every year for all parishioners to enjoy during Easter celebration. When John was not working at JK Volvo, he loved to work in his workshop at home. He developed a love for woodwork throughout the years and designed and created impeccable cabinetry, along with a 'man cave' that is like no other. He also looked forward to September each year, where he would join his cousins from Arizona, his son, and his nephews to go on hunting/camping excursions.

John Michael Kefalas not only achieved his dreams of coming to America and opening his own shop, but much, much more. He was extremely proud of his family and of the foundation he established. John was honored as the 'pioneer' of the Kefalas families today and his legacy will live and thrive through all of us forever. He was loved and well respected by all who knew him. His generosity, kindness, fierce spirt and infectious laugh will never be forgotten.

John is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Evelyn, his adoring children Kellie and Mike, his beloved brothers George (Anna), Mody (Nina); his sister Maria (predeceased Demetri). He is also survived by his many nieces and nephews, near and far; Godchildren (Dino and Demetri), and grand nephews and grandnieces.

We love you DAD... May your memory be eternal!

Both Trisagion and Funeral services will be held at Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church, 778 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107. Trisagion service: Monday, September 12, 2022, at 7:00pm. Funeral service: Tuesday September 13, 2022, at 10:00am. Makaria luncheon to follow in the Trinity Ballroom. All are welcome to the interment at Rose Hills Mortuary and Memorial Park that will begin promptly at 1:00pm – 3888 Workman Mill Road, Whittier, CA 90601. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church, "for Building Fund", 778 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107.

Arrangements under the direction of Chapman Funeral Homes - Mary Harmon, owner. Toll free (855) 628-0447.

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Obituary notice for Chapman Funeral Homes. Please visit www.chapmanfuneraldirectors.com .

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