Nicolas Mihailidis, aged 91, peacefully passed away at his residence on April 6, 2024, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Born on September 15, 1932, in the quaint village of Pentavryso, Kastoria, Greece, Nick endured the tumult of World War II during his adolescence, seeking refuge in the mountains to evade Nazi occupation. At the age of 18, in 1951, he embarked on a journey to the United States, landing in Hartford, Connecticut, where he embarked on his American journey as a dishwasher in a local restaurant. Nick’s resilience and hard work were recognized by a group of Greek-American AHEPA members in Chicago, who sponsored him and others for relocation to East Chicago. There, he secured a job at the Inland Steel Company, where he dedicated over 33 years of his life, steadily ascending the ranks to become a respected roller, ensuring the smooth operation of the mill with his composed demeanor.
In East Chicago, at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, Nick encountered the love of his life, Irene Glinos. Their union blossomed into a family of five, with the birth of their children Mariann, Michael, and George. Nick, a devoted husband, father, and cherished member of his community, alongside Irene, cultivated a warm and welcoming home on Elm Street, where laughter and good food were abundant, and friendships flourished.
In 1987, Nick and Irene relocated to Scottsdale, Arizona, joining Irene’s sister and family. Their home became a hub of joyful gatherings, where grandchildren Katherine and Irene spent summers creating cherished memories with family and friends. Nick’s passion for gardening and his meticulous craftsmanship were evident in the miniature village he meticulously crafted in his backyard, reminiscent of his beloved Greek upbringing.
A man of unwavering integrity, Nick stood steadfast in his beliefs, advocating for causes close to his heart and serving as a pillar of support for his church and Greek-American community. He instilled in his children the values of hard work, loyalty, and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. Nick’s quick wit, genuine warmth, and profound respect for others endeared him to all, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness.
Nick is survived by his devoted wife of 72 years, Irene; cherished children Mariann and Michael Mihailidis; beloved grandchildren Irene Mihailidis and Katherine Koster; brother George (Alexandra) Mihailidis and their family; sister Susie Tsiamita (widow of the dearly departed Kalloudi) and her family in Greece; beloved in-laws Gus and Mena Bafaloukos and their family in Arizona; the recently departed George Glinos (Patti) and their family, along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and koumbari (close family friends) in the United States and Greece. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, George, and his parents and siblings in Greece. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Kim and Brittany from Suncrest Hospice for their exceptional care and support.
The funeral service will be held on Monday, April 15th, 2024, directly at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Schererville, beginning at 1:30 PM. Visitation will be held at the church from 12:30 PM until the time of the service. Burial will follow at Ridgelawn Cemetery.
