Peter J. Tripodes, 77, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2019.

Peter was born April 4, 1942 to Jack and Mary Tripodes in Cleveland, Ohio. He joined his sister Virginia, and 14 years later was joined by his brother Nikitas.

Peter's family moved from Ohio to California in 1946. His father, along with his uncles, drove their families out West in a three-car caravan. His family first settled in Monterey Park before moving one last time to South Pasadena.

The same year they moved out to California, Peter's father and uncles bought a restaurant in South Pasadena that they renamed Gus's BBQ. Peter began working at the family restaurant at the age of 13 in 1955. While working, Peter continued his studies, and he graduated from South Pasadena High School and Pasadena City College before he earned a business degree from California State University, Los Angeles.

Peter eventually became the co-owner of Gus's along with his brother-in-law, Dino Lappas. He was active both in the South Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and city affairs. After more than 50 years of working the restaurant, Peter retired in 2007.

Peter was a patron of the arts. For over 30 years he was a season ticket holder at the Pantages Theatre, in time moving up to front row tickets. He frequented other playhouses as well and would see a play as often as three times a month. Peter was also a frequent traveler and he visited many parts of the world, including Alaska, Quebec, the Caribbean, Brazil, Russia, and many parts of Europe.

Peter was a member of Greek–American fraternal organizations. He joined the Sons of Pericles in 1960 and later became District Governor in 1963. The next year in 1964, he became Supreme Governor. He joined the Rose Bowl Chapter of the Order of AHEPA in 1964, and was a 55 year member upon his passing. He was also a longtime member of the Pan-Icarian Brotherhood.

Above all, Peter treasured the time he spent with his friends and family. Whether it was cruises, weekend casino trips, card games, plays, movie nights, or Saturday brunches, Peter had an active life and made many wonderful memories with the people who loved him.

He is survived by his sister Virginia Lappas, sister-in-law Dena Tripodes, nieces and nephews Andrea, Maria, Vincent, Zacharias, Marika, and Georgia, and great-nephew and great-niece Max and Dina. He is also survived by godsons Dean and Louis, an uncle, aunts, many cousins, and friends.

Trisagion and funeral service will be held together at 11:00 AM on Monday, September 9, 2019 at Saint Anthony Greek Orthodox Church, 778 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107. Interment at San Gabriel Cemetery.

Donations in Peter's memory can be made to the Pan-Icarian Foundation ( pan-icarian.com/foundation ).

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

______________________________

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

AmericanObituary.com is a Baywalk Marketing service.

facebook.com/AmericanObituary - twitter.com/AmericaObituary