In Memoriam: Christ G. Kraras

Christ Gust Kraras, 79, of Wyomissing, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, at Reading Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Reading, he was the son of the late Gust C. and Stella G. (Dialectos) Kraras. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Ann B. Kraras, in 2024.

Christ grew up in Reading and was a proud member of the "13th Street Gang." In his youth, he worked with his family at the College Inn at 14th & Union Streets across from Albright College. He had very fond memories of being with his parents and sisters as they ran the restaurant. Christ became a chef at a very young age. This is where he learned to cook so well, which turned into a passion of his. In the summers, Christ would go with his family to the Lorraine Hotel in Wildwood, NJ, to run the restaurant with his family. 

Christ was also very interested in sports. He played basketball at Reading High School under legendary coach Pete Carril and later played for the JCC, where he was named MVP in a national tournament. He later continued his basketball career at Albright College.

Christ graduated from Reading High School and received his Bachelor's Degree in History and Political Science from Albright College and his Master of Education in Political Science from Kutztown University. He began his professional career as a teacher at Daniel Boone High School before founding his own family business, White Stars Tours. 

He served as President & CEO at White Star Tours for over 45 years before becoming Chairman of the Board within the last few years. Christ also served as the president of several building and development ventures in Pennsylvania and New Jersey and held ownership in several restaurants and hotels in New Jersey, a publishing company in Florida, a baseball team in South Carolina, a machine fabrication company in Pennsylvania, and a gymnastics apparel company in Reading.

In addition to his expansive professional career, Christ was a member of numerous organizations within his community. He served as Chairman of the Board for Berks Encore, United Way of Berks County, and Centro Hispano Daniel Torres. He also served on the boards of Reading Education Foundation, Fulton Bank, Alvernia University, Albright Board of Trustees, Penn National Bank, Reading Hospital, Go Greater Reading, American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), Caron Foundation, Olivet Boys & Girls Club, Reading Berks Council of Churches, Berks Arts Council, Village of College Heights Task Force, and Experience Reading & Berks County (formerly the Visitor's Bureau). He volunteered as a coach with the Van Reed Athletic Association in the 1980s and was a current member of the Berkshire Country Club and Maidencreek Fishpond.

In 2010, Christ, along with his father, Gust, and George Giovanis, was instrumental in revitalizing the Reading AHEPA Chapter No 61, which has raised thousands of dollars for Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church and for youth scholarships. In 2025, Christ was awarded the AHEPA Medal of Heroes, a prestigious honor awarded by the Order of AHEPA to recognize community leaders for extraordinary service and dedication. The Heroes Award honors those who exemplify the organization's values of philanthropy, civic duty and the protection of Hellenic ideals.

Christ, a devout servant of his faith, was heavily involved in Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, where he served as Parish Council Board member for over 45 years, as President for multiple years, Chairman of the annual Greek Food Festival for many years, Sunday School Director, Sunday School Teacher, GOYA Basketball Coach, a member of the Choir, and a longtime member of the Cooking Crew. He was also on the Capital Campaign Committee, the Building Committee, and led the current Iconography & Stained Glass renovation projects. He was ordained as an Archon in the Greek Orthodox Church to honor him for his lifetime of service and devotion to his Greek Orthodox faith.

Christ was well-recognized for his service to his community. He was inducted to the Junior Achievement of Greater Reading & Lehigh Valley Business Hall of Fame in 2011, he received the 2013 Eugene Shirk Community Builder Award, the Spirit of Reading Award from the Salvation Army in 2014, the 2014 Sydney D. Kline Jr. Award for Community Service from the Law Foundation of Berks County/Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the 2016 Thun Award for Community Leadership, the 2019 Richard J. Caron Award of Excellence from the Caron Foundation, the 2024 Centro Hispano Daniel Torres Amigo Award, the 2025 Tower Health Legacy of Health Partnership Award, the Berks Encore Leadership by Example Award, the United Way Wilbur H. Duran Award, the Albright College Jacob Albright Award, the Boy Scouts of America Spirit of Scouting Award, and the AFP Berks Regional Chapter Outstanding Philanthropist Award. He received distinguished alumni awards from Northeast Middle School, Reading High School, and Albright College. Christ was also added to The Founders Wall and has a dorm dedicated in his name at Albright College. He was honored as an Emeritus Trustee at Alvernia University and Albright College.

Christ married the love of his life, Ann B. Kraras, on December 29, 1968. They shared over 55 wonderful years together.

Christ is survived by his son, Dean (Jen) Kraras, his daughter, Marisa (Scott) Hunsicker, his seven grandchildren: Mackenzie, Peyton, Christopher, and Delaney Kraras; and Tommy, Christo, and Gram Hunsicker; his two sisters, Angel (Mauro) Cammarano and Patricia "Tula" (Bernie) Donahue, as well as his large, devoted family.

Christ will forever be remembered for putting God and family above everything in his life. "Pappou" never missed any event his children or grandchildren took part in, and his family will be forever grateful.

A visitation will be held Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 1001 East Wyomissing Blvd., Reading, PA 19611. A visitation will also be held on Monday, March 30, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at the church. A service will follow beginning at 11:00 AM. Burial will take place at Charles Evans Cemetery at the conclusion of the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Saints Constantine and Helen Church at the above address. Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home is honored to serve the Kraras family. Condolences may be expressed at kuhnfuneralhomes.com.

In Memoriam: Stratton 'Strat' Marmarou

Stratton Peter Marmarou, 92, of Reading, passed away on February 19, 2026, at Tower Health/Reading Hospital.

He was the beloved husband of the late JoAnne (Reiniger) Marmarou, whom he married on October 15, 1965. She preceded him in death in 2020.

Born on March 5, 1933, in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late Peter and Mary (Vaparellis) Marmarou.

Stratton was a 1950 graduate of Reading High School and later earned his associate's degree from Reading Area Community College.

A faithful and active member of Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, he served on the church's Parish Council for 30 years and remained devoted to his faith throughout his life.

Stratton was a 50-year-member of the Order of AHEPA (American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association) and a past president of AHEPA Chapter No. 61 in Reading.

Stratton proudly served his country as a United States Army veteran of the Korean Conflict.

He began his working career in the bakery and vegetable departments at Mohican Market in Reading and later worked on his father's ice cream truck, "Crystal Ice Cream," the first of its kind in Reading. He went on to serve as Security Director for Pomeroy's Department Store in Reading.

Stratton's longest and most distinguished career was with the Reading Police Department, where he served for 23 years as a police detective before retiring in 1977. During his tenure, he established the department's first juvenile unit. Following retirement, he worked as a special investigator for the Pennsylvania Auditor General's Office.

From 1980 to 2000, Stratton served as Head of Security at Albright College, dedicating 20 years to the institution.

He was the founder and past president of the Reading Police Beneficial Association and served as a trustee for the City of Reading Fraternal Order of Police. Deeply committed to youth and community service, Stratton founded Reading American Little League and was a longtime volunteer and former director of the Police Athletic League (P.A.L.). He also served as former president of the church council at St. Matthew's Greek Church.

Stratton was actively involved in local government, serving as a member of the Reading School Board and as Reading City Councilman for District 4 for three terms (12 years). During his time on council, he oversaw the construction of the 9th and Marion Fire Station and served on the City of Reading Stadium Commission.

An avid sports enthusiast, Stratton umpired baseball and softball in Berks County for 30 years and coached Little League baseball for many seasons.

Above all, Stratton cherished time spent with his family and fondly enjoyed trips with his wife to the Atlantic City casinos.

He is survived by two children: Stephanie Marmarou and Peter Marmarou, both of Reading.

Stratton was the proud "Papou" to his grandson, Anthony, husband of Kelsey (Farmer) Marmarou and their daughter, Eleni Jo Marmarou.

Stratton is also survived by a nephew, Steven, husband of Beth (Raquet) Reiniger and their children, Rachel and David.

He is survived by several other cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Statton was predeceased by his siblings: George, John, Esther Kovras, Evriklia "Eva" Koutalalis, and Christ.

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12 noon in Sts. Constantine and Helen Church, 1001 E Wyomissing Blvd., Reading, PA 19611 with a viewing held from 10 am until time of services, in the Church.

Burial will be in Charles Evans Cemetery, Reading.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Church at the above address or to Berks Catholic High School, 955 E. Wyomissing Blvd., Reading, PA 19611.

Stitzel Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., Laureldale is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences visit www.StitzelFamilyFuneralHomes.com

In Memoriam: Nicholas A. Krallis

Nicholas A. Krallis, 64, of Reading, passed away on September 7, 2025, at Reading Hospital after a three-year battle with ALS.

Born in Reading, he was a son of Maria (Vougamalis) of Reading and the late Anthony G. Krallis.

Nick was a graduate of Reading High School in 1979 and Millersville University in 1983, earning a degree in Economics.

He was employed by White Star Tours for 40 years, where he very much enjoyed working with his customers and the entire Kraras team.

Nick loved the Phillies, Eagles, and all Philadelphia sports teams; more importantly, he loved his church, faith, and family. He was a music connoisseur who enjoyed traveling. Nick had a magnetic personality; people loved to be with him, and he found great joy being with his friends and family. He made many friends through travel, and that community continued to support Nick through his illness. Always thinking of others, Nick showed this by serving as an organ donor, helping at least three people in need.

Nick was a longtime member of AHEPA Chapter No. 61 in Reading. He was initiated into the Order of AHEPA in 1987. He previously served as chapter vice president and chapter secretary.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his brother, George A. Krallis, Reading; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Services will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 1001 East Wyomissing Blvd., Reading, PA 19611, where Nick was an active member. 

Burial will follow at Charles Evans Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to a viewing from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the church.

 In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Sts. Constantine and Helen Church at the above address or to ALS United Mid Atlantic, 1015 Virginia Dr., Suite 110, Fort Washington, PA 19034. Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., West Reading, is honored to serve Nick's family. Condolences may be expressed at kuhnfuneralhomes.com.

In Memoriam: AHEPAN Artie Fecera

Arthur A. "Artie" Fecera, 84, of Spring Township, Berks County, passed away on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at home surrounded by his loving family. 

Born in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late Arthur J. and Ines (Franchi) Fecera. Artie graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1959. After his father's passing, Artie took over and ran Fecera's Furniture for many years until his retirement in 2014. 

He was the husband of Constance (Arnidis) Fecera.

In addition to his wife, Artie is survived by his children Chris J. Fecera, husband of Annette, of Spring Township, and Catherine F., wife of Michael Zervanos of Lower Heidelberg Township, his grandchildren Ella, Ava, and Keegan, and his brothers Frank and Joseph Fecera. He is also survived from a previous marriage by his children A.J. Fecera, Lisa Yerger, and Roxanne Stone, and the late Jacqueline Hill and their families.

Artie ran Fecera's Furniture for decades alongside his wife, Connie, and son, Chris. 

He also served as President of the Style Trend Furniture Group for many years and was named Retailer of the Year in 2012. 

One of his greatest passions was aviation; he flew his private plane for over 40 years and was an active member of the Aero Club at the Reading Airport. Artie loved traveling to Hilton Head with Connie, Catherine and Chris, and frequently flew to North Carolina for Furniture Markets with his son and other members of the Style Trend Buying Group. His passion for flying extended to golf trips to various destinations as well.

Beyond aviation, Artie enjoyed boating with his family in Ocean City, MD, and was an avid golfer at the Berkshire Country Club. A dedicated runner, he participated in numerous races organized by the Reading Hospital. 

He was a member of Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Reading, Pa.

Artie served for 18 years on the Parish Council at Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, including a record 15 years as council president. Artie was named President Emeritus upon his retirement from the council. In 2021, he was honored with the Father of the Year award at the church.

Artie was a member of the Gust C. Kraras Chapter No. 61 Order of AHEPA in Reading.

Visitation with family and friends will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., with the Funeral Service starting at 11:00 a.m. at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 1001 E Wyomissing Boulevard, Reading, PA 19611. Interment will be held privately. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the church memorial fund at 1001 E Wyomissing Boulevard, Reading, PA 19611. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. has been entrusted with arrangements. 

In Memoriam: Peter Zeppos

After a lifetime serving others, Panagiotis (Peter) D. Zeppos, 92, of Wyomissing, was called home to God’s eternal table on February 13, 2025. He shared a beautiful life with his wife, Maria P. (Houhouli) Zeppos, as a loving and devoted husband for over 66 years.

Known as “The Boss” to his closest family, Peter spent his entire life taking care of the people he loved and filling their plates with exceptional food. Anyone lucky enough to have had his Pastitsio would rate it worthy of a Michelin Star. He was a legend to all who knew him with the strength of an ox, the heart of a teddy bear, and an undeniable sense of humor.

Born on January 7th, 1933 in Vlahokerasia, Arcadias, Greece, to the late Demosthenes and Magdalene Zeppos, Peter’s unwavering hard work and sacrifice started at just 13 years old, when he left home for Athens to attend school and work with his uncle in leather goods production.

At 17, he came to America, where he worked at the Crystal Restaurant for two years before joining the US Army and returning to his station in Germany. While deployed, he attended culinary school and learned to cook. He prepared meals for hundreds of soldiers in one sitting, an approach he has continued to take when cooking for family gatherings.

In 1955, Peter earned his US citizenship, settling back in Reading, PA to work at the Chat a While Inn. Shortly after, the Zeppos family restaurant legacy began with the purchase of the Eat Well Restaurant on 9th St. in Lebanon. In 1962, he purchased the Eat Well Diner on East Cumberland St., which quickly became a local staple for almost four decades. As its head chef and also co-owner of the Hitching Post Restaurant in West Lawn, the only days you wouldn’t find Peter at work were Christmas and New Year’s Day, when he still had a spatula in hand, cooking for loved ones at their home on Chestnut St. He took his only vacation back to Greece in 1958 to marry the love of his life, Maria. After retiring in 2000, the two moved to Wyomissing to be closer to their family.

Very proud of his Greek heritage, Peter was an active member of Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, the Order of AHEPA and a familiar face in the kitchen during the annual Greek Food Bazaar. To Peter, family was the center of his entire world. His home was the gathering place for every holiday and special occasion, and no one who stopped by would ever leave hungry. If you did make a surprise visit, you would likely find him out back doing yard work or tending his flourishing garden. He loved visiting his childhood home in Greece, heading to the Jersey Shore with his kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids, and attending as many of their sports and activities as he could.

In addition to his wife, Peter is survived by his daughter, Toula (Zeppos) Miller, wife of Eric J, Wyomissing, and son, Vasilios Zeppos, husband of Katerina, Lititz; grandchildren, Eric Peter (wife Danielle), Nicolette, Andrew, Maria, and Peter; great-grandchildren, Sloane and Miles; and siblings, Gust and Alex Zeppos. His siblings, John, Taso, Georgos, Georgia, Martha, and George, predeceased him. Many nieces and nephews also survive Peter.

Services will be held Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 1001 E Wyomissing Blvd., Wyomissing, PA 19611 with burial to follow at Charles Evans Cemetery. A viewing will be held from 8:30-10 a.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church at the address above. Henninger Funeral Home in Reading is in charge of arrangements. www.henningerfuneralhome.com

In Memoriam: Gust Zogas

GUST ZOGAS

Dr. Gust Zogas, age 93, passed away on August 25, 2024. 

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.