John Vlahos 1945-2025
WARREN — John Vlahos, 80, passed away peacefully Saturday evening, Dec. 13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends. His life was a testament to immense patience, positivity and kindness, and he cherished every moment spent with those he loved.
Born Aug. 1, 1945, in Karpathos, Greece, John was the son of Emmanuel and Maria Vlahos. As a young immigrant, he moved to Chicago before settling in Warren, where he met his beloved wife of 53 years, Alexandra.
Known affectionately as the “Gyro Man,” John’s passion for food, his warm personality and his love of people made him a beloved figure in the community. He enlivened every festival and midway with his enthusiastic proclamation, “It’s Gyro Time!” Many will fondly remember his signature saying, “It’s not a Gyro, it’s a Yee-roooo!” or being greeted with a smile and “Good morning, good morning,” no matter what time of day.
His unwavering spirit will forever be cherished and missed. John’s family is committed to honoring his legacy by living life to the fullest and with gratitude, just as he taught them.
John is survived by his wife, Alexandra Vlahos; his son, Emmanuel (Melissa) Vlahos; his daughters, Maria (Jimi) Shields and Eleanna (Steve) Hall; his six grandchildren, Elia, Halee, Sofia, Lenna, Rhea and Ally; great-grandchildren; sister, Panagiota Diakogeorgiou; brothers and sisters-in-law; and multiple nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmanuel and Maria Vlahos.
John’s family would like to thank the staff of Traditions Health for their compassionate care over the last year.
Family and friends may visit and pay tribute to John from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, at the Peter Rossi & Son Memorial Chapel of Warren, 1884 North Road NE, and again from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 429 High St. NE, Warren, OH 44481.
A funeral liturgy will follow visitation at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, at the church, with the Rev. Constantine Valantasis presiding.
Burial will follow in Pineview Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made, in John’s name, to the St. Demetrios New Building Fund or Philoptochos Society, 429 High St. NE, Warren, OH 44481.
Family and friends may visit www.peterrossiandsonfh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to the Vlahos family.
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