Harry Gavrilides

Harry Gavrilides was born on August 13, 1935 in Grand Rapids, Michigan and peacefully died on Sunday November 2, 2026, in his home surrounded by his loving family.

Harry’s parents, Bertha and Achilles Gavrilides came to America from Greece to offer their family a better life. When Harry was 1 year old he and his mother went to Greece to visit family. When the war broke out, they were forced to stay in Greece for 9 years.

Harry joined the US Navy and served his country being stationed in Greece with his brother Spike as his commanding officer.

Harry met the love of his life Sophie Cosma at a GOYA dance in Grand Rapids in January of 1958. On Sunday November 9th, 1958 the two were married. Harry worked at Atlas Market and later became a distributor for Thomas Muffins. He later invested and worked Super Brite and Soft Line Car Washes.

Harry worked hard but still had time for his family taking many trips to Disney World, the Smokey Mountains, Northern Michigan and Florida.

His love of children didn’t stop with his children, Leni and Ernie. He was known in the neighborhood as Papou with all the neighbor children. Halloween was his favorite day of the year, sitting outside passing out candy commenting on their costumes.

He loved watching his son Ernie and his grandsons, Harry and Robert play sports, never missing a game.

Harry is preceded in death by his mother, father and his brother Spike Gavris.

Harry is survived by his wife Sophie of 68 years, his daughter Leni, his son Ernie (Colleen), grandsons Harry and Robert and many nieces and nephews all of whom, loved him dearly.

A Visitation will take place on Thursday, November 5th from 4pm to 8pm at the Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home, Clarkston. A Trisagion Service will begin at 7pm that evening. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, November 6th at 10am at St. George Greek Orthodox Church. Friends and family may arrive any time after 9:30am. Please consider leaving a memory or condolence on Harry’s online guestbook below.