John C. Ginakes, 79, of Scottsdale, AZ fell asleep in the Lord on September 27, 2020, just one day before his 80th birthday. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Polly, his three children: TeAnn (Michael) Philippis, Elena Atkins, and Tino (Kristen) Ginakes. He is also survived by his 8 grandchildren: Kayla (Evan), Ashten, Ernie, Timmy, Sophia, Nicole, John, and Christopher, his 4 great-grandchildren: Hayden, Camden, Rhyden, and Paxden, and his sister Anastasia (Harvey) Brakken, his Brother-in-Law Nick (Carol) Speliopoulos, and his Sister-in-Law Angie Speliopoulos. He will be missed by many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Born in Fargo, North Dakota, he loved singing, dancing, and performing. In his younger years, he toured the Midwest and Canada with the likes of Buddy Knox and other Rock-n-Roll icons. He was later inducted into the Mid-America Music Hall of Fame with Steve Wroe and the Furys.
Even greater than his love of music was his love of horses. He was always at peace in the saddle. John loved all things of beauty, which was reflected by his years as a Hair Stylist and his love of photography. He was an avid fisherman who never once had a bad day on the lake.
He loved celebrating his Greek culture, especially Greek dancing – always leading the dance line. Alzheimer’s disease stole many things from him, but it never stole his love of being Greek.
He was the happiest when surrounded by family and we will miss him dearly. May his memory be eternal.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions private funeral services will be held for immediate family only at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral. All are welcome to express condolences and Hugs from Home at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in his memory to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 1973 E. Maryland Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85016.
DemosGinakes
always remember the good times__ growing up __fishing every summer__spent so much of our youth together—will miss him–may his memory be eternal__cousin demo xo
Andrea Buzunis
My Dearest Family,
May the constant love and caring of family and friends soften your sadness. May cherished memories bring you moments of comfort and peace. Tenderly may time heal your sorrow, gently may friends ease your pain, softly may peace replace your heartache and warm memories remain. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I am so thankful for the times we were together which have left me with wonderful memories I will forever hold in my heart. Cousin John will be missed by all he touched.
May his memory be eternal. Love you all so much!
Mrs. Kathryn M. Lewis
John was a good and loyal friend to my husband Ed (CE Lewis) and stood by us when Ed passed. John was compassionate and sincere in his care of all his friends – and the first of the gorup to praise his own family.
I miss his Christmas call — those conversations brought a bright spot in our lives.
K Lewis
Timothy Buzunis
Aunt Polly and entire family, this will a big void in all our hearts on the passing of Uncle John. I have many great memories from time as kid when Uncle John broke our family horse. Also going to Sedona a few years a go in big huge Condo with nine of us all in tow, turning on Greek music and watching Uncle John sing and dance. Uncle John was the first person of family to check out our new home in San Tan Valley after Kerry and I purchased the home on the net. I loved the sleep over’s with Aunt Polly and Uncle John spent with us a few years back. Uncle John was the kindest and most loving man. Anyone who came into contact with Uncle John is richer for it. He will always be with us watching over the entire family. He’s already in Heaven with many relatives Dancing and Singing. God Bless and May His Memory be Eternal. Love Tim and Kerry.
Jennifer Meekins
My thoughts and prayers are with you all! John was a great man who will be missed! He welcomed me into his heart and home through my friendship with Lena! He always had a hug and chuckle waiting every time I saw him! We will meet again and until then I will fondly remember the last hug and laugh we shared!
Jen Meekins (McLaren)
Nick Maydanis
I didn’t know him well but I remember his face from church CAMP and in going to church when I was young. I’m sure he was a great man.. anyone who loves Photography is a great person. I’m sure he is in a better place now. With Theules and God! May his memory be eternal forever. He will be dearly MISSED.