Peter J. Hlepas, born in Tripolis, Greece, passed away late Sunday, January 28, 2024. Beloved husband of Mary Jane Hlepas née Dravillas of 62 years. Proud and devoted father of Georjean (Christopher) Nickell and Carrie (John) Maher. The joy of his life was as Papou to his loving grandchildren Tyler, Peter, Drake and Katrina Nickell and Riley, Cameron and Julian Maher who he saw or spoke to almost every single day.
Peter was preceded in death by his parents John and Georgia Hlepas née Spartan, siblings Rev. Vasilios, Paul (Sonja) and Harry Hlepas, brothers-in-law George (Elaine) Dravillas and Francis “Frank” Caccavale, who was his traveling buddy and dearest friend.
He is survived by his sister Toula (the late George) Kousoulas of Piraeus and Presvetera Toula Hlepas of Agios Vasiolios and sister-in-law Elaine Caccavale, along with countless nieces and nephews.
His arrival to the United States in 1951 began the story of the classic immigrant working towards achieving the “American Dream” and often using the stock phrase he lived by, “If you are not afraid of work, you will be fine”… and work he did.
A successful operator of Coin-Op Laundromats and Cleaners in Chicagoland, including Andersonville and Bucktown, kept him busy 363 days a year, only taking off for Thanksgiving and Christmas, for over 47 years before pivoting into the real estate and development industry.
In retirement, he enjoyed playing gin rummy with dear friends and family and rushed to keep his daily appointment at “The Office,” otherwise known as the Golf Mill Food Court, with friends old and new.
God fearing, proud, humble, generous and hardworking were virtues which carried him through life and he impressed on his children and grandchildren by example. His love and support will be forever missed, but his memory will be eternal. His family is grateful to so many who called and visited their dear father over the last few years, which meant the world to him.
Visitation Friday, February 2, 2024 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at N.H. Scott & Hanekamp Funeral Home 1240 Waukegan Road, Glenview, IL 60025 and Saturday, February 3, 2024 from 10:00 AM until time of Funeral Service 10:30 AM at Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 2727 West Winona Street, Chicago, IL 60625. Interment to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Skokie, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church would be appreciated. Arrangements by Memory Eternal Funeral Directors, Ltd. (847) 375-0095.
May his memory be eternal.
May Hie Memory Be Eternal
It is with great sadness that the loss of a wonderful and charming gentleman has passed to eternal life. He was a humorous and kind friend with a personality that was impossible to surpass! His sweet and wonderful wife was so fortunate to share so many happy years together. He had two wonderful and loving daughters , great sons/in-law and grandchildren that loved him dearly. He knew how to scare the UPS driver running to his truck that would keep us in hysterics! Chris and I send our love to his family as they see his wonderful smile looking down… Read more »