FOTIAS – Andreas D. Fotias aged 81 of Grand Rapids passed away evening June 27 2008 at St. Mary’s Health Care. He was preceded in death by his parents James and Evanthia Fotias; son James A. Fotias; and brother Dan J. Fotias. He is survived by his wife of 56 years Anne Mary Fotias; his children Cary A. (Mary) Fotias of New York NY Andrea A. Fotias of Grand Rapids Maria (David) Bechard Martha A. Fotias of Grand Rapids; five grandchildren Rachel David John Danielle Bechard and Brian A. Smith; brothers-in-law Gus (Anne) Kossaras of Fresno CA George (Lia) Kossaras of Carefree AZ Nick (Carmalie) Kossaras of Fresno CA; many nieces and nephews. Andy enjoyed working and playing with children coaching sports and teaching school. He adored his grandchildren. As president of AHEPA he met his wife. He was the first president of Hellenic Horizons and with the help of many devoted members presented an exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum chronicling the Greek-American experience. Andy was the owner of Fotias Cleaners for 46 years. Funeral services will be July 1 2008 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Rev. James Bogdan officiating. Interment Rest Lawn Memorial Park. Trisagion services will be at 8 p.m. Visitation 7 to 9 p.m. at the O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel 3980 Cascade Rd., SE. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan 201 Sheldon SE Grand Rapids MI 49503 or Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church 330 Lakeside Dr. NE Grand Rapids MI 49503.
