NEW YORK – The Greek-American community was saddened by the loss of Aristides Hatzimemos, who passed away October 12, at the age of 93. He was a beloved and active member of the Greek-American community, loving husband of Eleftheria ‘Loula’ Hatzimemos, devoted father to Evangelia (wife of Dr. David Cohen) and Eric (husband of Mara Hatzimemos), proud grandfather of Niki (wife of Sal), Natalie, Ari, Jack, and Aidan, his great-grandson, Sal Jr., esteemed uncle of Chris Katsimagles, and revered brother-in-law to Sotiris and his wife Claire Mitsios.
Aristides Hatzimemos was the son of an upper middle class family in Larissa, which, before World War II, held an important position in the city. His father worked for the Municipal Authority and was well-respected in the local community. However, things changed as his family struggled during the German Occupation.
The young Aristides lost his father, and worked to support his family. In 1951, however, his aunt sponsored him to sail across the Atlantic to the United States of America. He lived with his aunt and uncle, and his first job was as a dishwasher in his uncle’s restaurant in Brooklyn. He undertook training in logistics and traffic, gaining knowledge that created opportunities to work for both private companies and the U.S. Government managing shipments in and out of major New York ports, as noted in an online post by his grandson and namesake Ari Hatzimemos describing his grandfather’s immigrant experience.
Through the years Aristides enjoyed investing in real estate, listening to Greek music, playing ‘tavli’ (backgammon), building his home in Clearwater Beach, FL, and spending time with his dear grandchildren.
He was proud to be named for the ancient Greek statesman, Aristides, known as ‘the just’, and was delighted that his son, well-known lawyer, Eric Hatzimemos distinguished himself in the legal profession and business world.
The visitation will take place on Tuesday, October 15, 3-8 PM, at John G. Litras Funeral Director Corp. – Dahill Funeral Home, 2525 65th Street in Brooklyn, NY 11204, while the funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 16, 11:30 AM, at Three Hierarchs Greek Orthodox Church, 1724 Avenue P in Brooklyn, NY 11229.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Aristides Hatzimemos to the Three Hierarchs Greek Orthodox Church, 1724 Avenue P, Brooklyn, NY 11229.
