Ted (Theodore) George Zonos was born on December 28, 1928 in Davies, Tripolis Greece. Ted was born to George and Despina Zounatiotis. He had two sisters, Panayiota Bicos and Evyenia Kantzavelos, and one brother, Dimitris Zounatiotis who have all passed.
Ted went to school in Tripoli and then enlisted in the Greek army. He dreamt of a life outside of the village so with the approval of his parents, he was sponsored by his uncle George Hroundas and came to Los Angeles in November 1955. One of his first jobs was that of a dishwasher in his uncle's restaurant. He then began delivering produce to celebrities' homes with his koumbaro, George Kostas. He eventually crossed paths with Harry and Chris Daglas becoming partners and together opened several fast food restaurants. From there he was able to invest in real estate and developed numerous commercial shopping centers.
Alexandra Zonos, his next door neighbor in the village, was the love of his life. Prior to leaving for the United States, he promised that he would return for her after he was able to save some money. He kept that promise and on May 5, 1957 they were married at Saint Sophia Cathedral. They had two children, daughter Debbie and son George. Ted raised his family in Downey.
Ted had a great sense of adventure. He enjoyed taking his family on vacations. They spent many summers while the kids were out of school in Greece and Europe. They traveled to Canada and saw many parts of the United States on the road. He enjoyed playing golf, having friends and family over on holidays, but more importantly ensured that his wife, children, and grandchildren were provided for. He will forever be remembered for his infectious laugh and smile, his kindness to others, and his honesty.
Ted is survived by his wife Alexandra, son George, daughter Debbie, son in law Matthew and grandchildren Christian and Ryan.
The trisagion and funeral services will both be held at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral,
1324 Normandie Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90006. The trisagion will be on Thursday, March 3, 2016 at 7:00 pm. The funeral will be on Friday, March 4, 2016 at 10:30 am. Makaria will follow the service and the interment will take place at Rose Hills Cemetery Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital.
www.stjude.org
Arrangements under the direction of Chapman Funeral Homes – Terry & Mary Harmon, Funeral Directors. Toll free (855) 628-0447.