John Kalagidis. Age 93, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Thursday, January 24, 2019. John was born in Canton, Ohio to the late Olympia (Fotiadis) and Nicholas Kalagidis. His parents emigrated from Pontos, Asia Minor.

He graduated from Timken Vocational High School in 1943. Served in World War II, with the First Army, 552 ^nd Field Artillery Battalion, "A" Battery. Participated in five battles in the European Theatre: the Normandy invasion landing at Utah Beach, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes (Battle of the Bulge) and Central Europe. He was a member and president of the Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge group (VBOB).

He graduated from Kent State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health and Physical Education. Began his teaching career in the Canton City School system in 1954. In 1962, he transferred to the newly opened Souers Junior High School where he taught physical education until his retirement in 1989. He coached freshman football, basketball, and girls track. Thousands of students passed through the halls where he taught and respected him as a caring and dedicated educator. In 1989 he was honored as the Timken High School Distinguished Alumnus.

A life-long member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, he was an altar boy and choir member. He organized and was the first president of the church youth group. He served on the church board of trustees as vice-president, treasurer, secretary, and was a Sunday school teacher and youth group adviser. He was selected as chairman of the Building Committee, which planned and erected a new church and cultural center. In 1983, he received the Ecclesiastical award in recognition of his dedication and service to his church community. He was a member of the Order of AHEPA, Chapter #59.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years Ann (Stilianos), and his children (spouse), Olympia Kalagidis, Kristine (George) Waseity, Nicholas (Heather) Kalagidis, Konstantina 'Dina' (Michael) Grunder, John F. Kalagidis and Anestis (Kelly) Kalagidis. Grandchildren (spouse): Erica (Adam) Boey, Nicholas D. Kalagidis, Anna Grunder, John K. Grunder and Athena Hunter. Step-great grandson Bradley Boey. We love you and we will miss your unwavering support and your caring and gentle soul.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister Mary (Kalagidis) Carvour, and other siblings. He is survived by one brother Menelaos 'Mark' Kalagidis, many nieces and nephews.

A special thanks to his compassionate caregivers.

Calling hours will be held at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church (4705 Fairhaven Ave NW, Canton, 44709) on Monday, January 28 from 4 to 7 p.m., with Trisagion Services starting at 6 p.m.

Family and friends will also be received in the church on Tuesday, January 29 ^th from 10 to 11 a.m. Funeral Services will begin at 11 a.m., with Rev. Dr. Daniel Rogich as celebrant. Interment will be in West Lawn Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Christian Fund, or The Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association- Homeless Veterans Initiative (1310 Mac Drive, Stow, Ohio 44224).

Rossi (330)492-5830

www.rossifuneralhomeinc.com