Vasilios Koukoutsis was born on October 28, 1935, in Karpenisi, Greece.
He grew up during the hardships of World War II and the Greek Civil War. At just 12 years old, he survived a gunshot wound to the mouth—a testament to his strength and resilience. Like many of his generation, he endured a difficult early life in Greece.
In the early 1950s, Vasilios immigrated to the United States in search of the American Dream. After returning briefly to Greece to marry the love of his life, Efrosini, he returned to America to start and raise a family. Tirelessly hard-working, he helped bring his siblings to the U.S. while still supporting his parents back in Greece.
Together with Efrosini, he built a life centered around family. He settled in North Carolina where his first son was born before moving to Harrison NJ owning various food businesses.
Vasilios was a man of many passions. He loved cooking, fishing, gardening, the outdoors, the beach, Greek folk dancing, Greek music, enjoying a good cigar, and fittingly—also had a fondness for the casinos. Above all, he cherished his grandchildren.
After retirement, he enjoyed traveling to Greece during the summers, reconnecting with his roots.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife Efrosini, and by his parents, Eleni and Demitrios Koukoutsis. He is survived by his siblings Maria Zarkadas, Melpomeni Korkovelos, and Christos Koukoutsis; his sons James Koukoutsis and Dennis Koukoutsis (Carolyn); and his adoring grandchildren, Julia Frances Koukoutsis and William John Koukoutsis.
He passed away peacefully on May 8th while listening to his wedding song, just two days after his anniversary, while holding the hands of his sons.
His legacy is one of perseverance, family devotion, and joy in life’s simple pleasures. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visiting will be on Monday May 12, from 4 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Armitage Wiggins Funeral Home 596 Belgrove Drive in Kearny. The Funeral Ceremony will take place on Tuesday May 13, 10:00 a.m. at St. Demetrios Church in Union N.J. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington N.J.
