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| GUST ZOGAS |
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Doris (PasYotis) on the same day eight years prior. They were fortunate to share 60 wonderful years together.
Born in Reading, PA, on May 28, 1931, to Greek immigrants Harry and Maria (Kypriotis) Zogas, Gust grew up in a small row home in Northeast Reading. He graduated from Reading High School. He served in the U.S. Army in the Korean War. Although self-described as not book smart, he obtained a PhD in Education. He frequently advised his children and grandchildren that hard work leads to success. He was very proud they all went on to pursue college degrees.
Gust wore many hats in the field of education: Geography teacher, Guidance Counselor, Vice Principal, Director of Night School at Reading Area School District, Dean of Students, and President at Reading Area Community College. After retirement, he obtained the title of President Emeritus and joined the foundation for RACC, serving as Executive Director. In 2023, he was awarded the distinguished Rolf D. Schmidt Honorary Director award.
Gust was active in his church, Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Reading, PA, where he served on the Parish Council in the 1980s, including a term as Council President in 1986. He also volunteered for many years in the kitchen at the annual Church Food Bazaar.
Gust was a member of the Order of AHEPA (American Hellenic Educational Association), having been initiated into the Reading AHEPA Chapter No. 61 in 1980.
Gust and Doris were world travelers, instilling a love for adventure in their children and grandchildren. However, their true love was the sun and sand of Stone Harbor, NJ., and Sanibel, FL., where most of their time was spent. Many fond memories were created hosting family and friends. He was proud to share what he had with those he loved. He immensely enjoyed it when family and friends would come by for a glass of wine and conversation.
Although a dedicated educator, administrator, visionary and friend, 'Dad' and 'Papou' are the two titles for which he will be most remembered. He is survived by his children, Thomas, husband of Linda (Sweger) Zogas, Lower Heidelberg Township, Chrissada, wife of Kevin Caruso, Wyomissing, and Elaynee, wife of Blaise Polentes, Bethlehem. There are six grandchildren Elise, Chloe, Alexander, Brian, Jack and Natasha who will miss him very much. Also surviving are his brothers, Christ, widower of Irene (Maronic), Roanoke, VA, and Theodore, husband of Sylvia (Zielinski), Reading.
He was predeceased by his brother Peter, and sister-in-law Clarise (Crocona) Zogas. Gust also was predeceased by his half-sisters, Effie (Pasko) Stevens and Elizabeth (Pasko) Rogers.
A viewing will begin at 10 a.m. with services at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 30, 2024, at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 1001 E. Wyomissing Blvd., Reading PA 19611.
Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home Inc. West Reading. is in charge of arrangements.
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