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It is with a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of our father, grandfather, and role model, Christos Danias. He was the definition of a true gentleman in every sense of the word, who believed in helping others as he pushed himself to achieve his goals. From his childhood in a small village, to creating several businesses as a successful entrepreneur, and becoming a respected leader in his church and broader Greek-American community, he always carried himself with purpose, dignity, and humility. Throughout his journey, he never lost sight of what mattered most - his family.
Christos was born on February 27, 1937, in a small village near Agrinio called Kamaroula, to Georgios and Katerina Danias and was the youngest of five siblings. He learned to work hard and help support the family. Eventually he went to school and learned automotive mechanics, which would serve him in his later travels.
When called to fulfill his mandatory military service, Christos served as one of the Evzones, the elite ceremonial guards of the Hellenic Army. He was later selected for the Royal Guard, entrusted with the protection of the Greek Royal Family.
Recognizing that his future lay beyond Greece, Christos emigrated to Montreal, Canada, in the 1960s, where he began working as an automotive mechanic—his first step toward building a new life. While in Montreal, he returned to Greece in 1969 to marry Maria Makris, laying the foundation for the family he would cherish above all else. The births of his daughters, Katerina (Katherine) and Panagiota (Patricia), became his greatest pride and the driving force behind his determination to succeed.
Seeing the opportunity America offered, Christos moved his family to North Miami in the early 1970s, where he opened his first service station and became an active parishioner of the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, as well as an engaged member of the Greek-American community. A firm believer in servant leadership, he later served on the Parish Council, joined the local AHEPA chapter, and became a founding member of the Roumeliotiko Association.
After several years in Miami, Christos and his family began a new chapter in Boca Raton, where Saint Mark Greek Orthodox Church became their spiritual home. There, he continued to give generously of his time, talent, and treasure. He faithfully attended services, remained active in AHEPA’s Boca Raton chapter, and volunteered each year at the parish’s annual Greek Festival. He made it a point to welcome newcomers personally, introducing himself and helping them feel part of the community. Christos credited his success to his faith and believed it was his responsibility to support not only his parish in Boca Raton, but churches throughout South Florida and in Greece.
Whether welcoming new members to the Saint Mark community or offering quiet assistance to a friend in need, Christos was consistently present. In 2021, when his childhood friend Giorgios Kotronis set out to publish a book honoring their hometown of Kamaroula, Christos agreed to serve as its patron and was deeply honored when the author recognized him upon its release.
A proud father and grandfather, he attended endless dance performances, Greek School pageants, karate tournaments, and basketball games. There was nothing he would not do for his children and grandchildren.
Christos passed away peacefully in Boca Raton, Florida, on February 26, 2026, one day before his 89th birthday.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Maria and his devoted daughters, Katherine Danias Skoundridakis (husband Bill; sons Zachary and Christos) and Patricia Danias Simonyan (husband Greg; sons Evan and Alan).
The funeral service will take place on Monday, March 2nd at 12:00 PM, with a Visitation at 11:30 AM, at Saint Mark. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Saint Mark Greek Orthodox Church.
Though his earthly journey has ended, the faith that sustained him throughout his life remains his enduring legacy. We take comfort in the promise of eternal rest and in the assurance that a life lived with discipline, devotion, and conviction is never wasted. May his memory be eternal.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Christos Danias, please visit our floral store.