Mr. Phidias G. Dantos, of Hanover, New Hampshire, and cherished husband of Alice (Norris) Dantos,.
Born in Andover, Massachusetts, on January 27, 1933, he was the adored son of the late George and Evgenia (Gounaris) Dantos. Phidias graduated from Punchard High School in Andover, MA, attended Lowell Textile Institute and earned a PhD from the School of Hard Knocks. Mr. Dantos served in the US Navy during the Korean War, entering the military on August 1, 1951. While in the military, Phidias was stationed in Bainbridge, Maryland, and worked until his honorable discharge following his father's death in 1952.
At 19, Phidias stepped into his father’s shoes, caring for his mother and sisters by partnering with his Uncle Peter as proprietor of the Andover Spa, an old-school soda fountain and neighborhood hub in Andover, MA, when he set the record by selling 1500 coconuts before noon on Memorial Day. Phidias’ sense of honor and commitment to family remained steadfast throughout his life.
As principal at Danton Realty Trust, Phidias spearheaded the initiative for urban redevelopment, a project that included the Standex International Building and shaping downtown Andover, MA, as it stands today. His vision and dedication to community are a source of pride and appreciation for all who knew him.
Phidias had a warm charm and a gift for hospitality. He owned the Hotel Coolidge in White River, VT, bringing vitality and culture to the small railroad town. Dantos was involved with developing Quechee Lakes Corporation, a second-home community in Quechee, VT. Phidias served as President of the Vermont State Chamber of Commerce and was awarded Hartford ‘Man of the Year’ in 1982.
Dantos also managed the Carlton House in Quincy, MA, and owned the Towne Deli in Andover, MA. Phidias owned and operated a franchise chain of Au Bon Pain cafés throughout New England in his later career.
Earning his pilot’s license in 1954, Phidias attained his private pilot, single, multi-engine, and instrument ratings with over 8,000 hours as a pilot in command. Dantos served as Commissioner of Aeronautics for Massachusetts. He was a longtime member of NASAO, the National Association of State Aviation Officials, and a dedicated member of the Reserve for Employees.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Phidias’ life was defined by his kindness, wit, and love of nature. He served his dear parish of St. Vasilios Greek Orthodox Church in Newport, NH, by tending the grounds and playing Santa Claus. He was an imaginative and avid storyteller and a man whose compassion and positive outlook continue to inspire those who were blessed to know him.
Along with his treasured wife, Alice, Phidias is survived by his loving children: David L.Dantos of Raymond, NH, Mark P. Dantos (Lavinia Weizel) of Boston, MA, and Maria Katsaros (Georgios Katsaros) of Brooklyn, NY and grandchildren Kayla Dantos, Theodore Katsaros, Vasilios Katsaros and Zella Weizel-Dantos. He was predeceased by his loving sisters, Angie Econ and Bessie Nikitas.
His Funeral service will be held at Sts. Constantine & Helen Church, 71 Chandler Road, Andover, MA on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at 1 PM. Visitation will be held in the church, prior to the funeral, from noon to 1 PM. Interment will be held in the West Parish Cemetery in Andover. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Burke-Magliozzi Funeral Home of Andover. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to St Vasilios Greek Orthodox Church in Newport, NH. For additional information, please visit www.burkemagliozzi.com.
***40 day memorial prayers will be said at Sts. Constantine & Helen Cathedral in Brooklyn Heights on June 9, 2024, at 10 AM. stconstantinecathedral.org