Obituary of Dimitrios Kanos

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dimitrios Kanos who passed away with his family by his side on March 18, 2025. He was 89 years old.

Dimitrios was born in Chios, Greece to Panagiota (Krinakis) and Emmanuel Kanos. He was raised during the difficult time of WW2 and had to flee to Cyprus to seek refuge with his family. Then, at the young age of 17, he joined the Merchant Marines which gave him the opportunity to travel to many countries while working on the ships.

In 1961 he married Ploumou (Gouvakis) and they married in Canada. A few years later they came to America to join his brother Kosta where they all settled in Vineland, NJ. He raised his family while working for various contractors as a cement finisher. He was one of the founders of St. Anthony's Greek Orthodox Church. He and his brother along with others helped build the foundation of the building and also of the community.

Dimitrios, also known as "Big Jim", was a gifted storyteller with a deep love for hunting, fishing, and gardening. Always ready to lend a hand, he would give the shirt off his back without expecting anything in return. His greatest joy was tending to his garden and bringing family and friends together with his delicious watermelons and cantaloupes. Everyone lined up for samples of his homegrown, aromatic garlic. He never missed a morning or afternoon coffee at Eric's restaurant where he would meet and talk with his best friends. With a warm and welcoming spirit, he made everyone he met feel like family. Nothing brought him more happiness than spending time with his great-grandchildren, his face lighting up with pride and joy in their presence. A true role model, he led by example, teaching kindness, generosity, and the value of hard work.

Dimitrios is predeceased by his wife Ploumou (Gouvakis), son-in-law Emmanuel Papamihalakis, brother Haralambos, brother Kostas and sister-in-law Kyriaky. He is survived by his loving family, children Panagiota and Emmanuel (Sophia), grandchildren, Kalliopi, George (Beth) and Dimitrios (Sara) and great grandchildren, Emilia, Delaina, Emmanuel and Nina.

Relatives and friends will be received on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at St. Anthony's Greek Orthodox Church, 430 W. Wheat Road, Vineland, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am. Interment will be held in Siloam Cemetery, Vineland.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Anthony's Greek Orthodox Church.