Vasilios “Bill” Theodore Papanastou (born December 31, 1954) of Lincolnwood, IL, known professionally as Bill Pappas, passed on April 16, 2021 at the age of 66 after a long battle with cancer. In his final days, he was surrounded by a great number of family and friends who came to pay respects, share stories, and reflect on Bill’s life.
Bill was born in Greece to Theodore and Stavroula (nee Tsioubris) Papanastou. In 1974, Bill came to the U.S. to attend college at the University of Illinois at Chicago, from which he graduated with a degree in Aerospace Engineering and Fluid Mechanics. His professional career included work as an Engineer and a Market Maker at the CBOE for over forty years.
On August 13, 1994, Bill married Marina (nee Radjenovich) and the two were happily married for 27 years. Bill raised two loving and adoring daughters, Julia Marina and Anastasia Christine, whom he taught to be intellectually curious, generous, and confident.
Bill will be remembered for his kind heart and generosity, his mentorship, and his mischievous and witty spirit. He was committed to his family above all and built a loving family with his wife. Bill had a great many passions, ranging from reading and discussing ancient history, discussing current events with his daughters, and enjoying a summer evening with his wife.
In addition to his wife and daughters, Bill is survived by one brother and two sisters in Greece, many nieces and nephews, and his wife’s family who will remember him dearly. His death is preceded by his cherished sister Eleni Papanastou, who passed in December 2020.
Visitation will be held from 10AM-11:30AM, Wednesday, April 21, with funeral service to follow at 11:30AM at St. George Greek Orthodox Church (2701 N. Sheffield Ave, Chicago IL 60614) to honor Bill’s life. Interment will occur at Ridgewood Memorial Park. Arrangements by John G. Adinamis Funeral Director, Ltd. 847-375-0095.
May His Memory Be Eternal.