Chris Thanos
April 17th, 1948-May 18th, 2024
Chris was a man who loved a good meal and cup of coffee almost as much as he loved family and friends. He was wise, kind, generous and loving. He could also be a bit of a curmudgeon…but at age 76, he earned that right! Chris was patriotic (often sporting his favorite color red), was a member of the Boy Scouts for over 20 years and absolutely loved dogs.
Chris was very proud of his Italian and Greek heritage. He and his 5 siblings were born and raised in the city of Rochester. His parents instilled a strong sense of family and the importance of their Catholic faith. After leaving school in 6th grade, Chris began working as a young adolescent to support his family. In his early 20’s, Chris married and celebrated the birth of two children. Chris cherished those early memories of his family and photos that captured the love he had for them. Chris worked hard throughout his adult life – he held jobs at the Armory, at restaurants and in food service. He knew his way around the city of Rochester like the back of his hand. During his retirement years, Chris’s friend (and former social worker) Angela was re-connected to him. Their deep love and trust in one another were evident. Angela introduced Chris to his Heritage Christian Services family where he met his dear friends Jeff and Julie.
With their support, Chris moved from his apartment in the city to Fairport where he could be closer to friends. In 2018, Chris fulfilled a lifelong dream of traveling to Graceland and soaking up everything Elvis who was one of his heroes!
In April of 2019, just before his 71st birthday, Chris moved into his home in Brighton. He said the best birthday he ever had was when he moved into Winton. He celebrated with hibachi and received a gold watch. Later, he bought a silver watch that he treasured. The tradition of going out for hibachi and having steak on his birthday continued through the years.
Chris felt at home in his “man cave” where he loved watching the Food Network. He also enjoyed watching the Bills play on Sunday with his housemates, and watching Westerns and action movies. Chris developed very close bonds with many of the staff at Winton particularly Genny. He had a trademark belly laugh and wink that will be missed.
Chris is predeceased by both his parents, William Thanos and Theresa Sorrentino, brothers Tony, George and Bill and sisters Fanny and Anna. We celebrate that they have been reunited as a family. Chris will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.
A Mass will be celebrated in honor of Chris at Holy Cross Church 4492 Lake Ave Rochester, NY 14612 at 10:30am this Friday May 24th followed by a graveside service at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
Leave a Comment