WORCESTER-Jason D. Koutoulas, 81, of Worcester, died Friday, August 3rd, at home after a long battle with ALS. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Evanthia (Efthimiou) Koutoulas; 2 sons, Demetrios J. and Kosta J. Koutoulas; a daughter, Maria J. wife of Chris Vasiliadis, all of Worcester; 2 brothers, Harilaos and Kleanthis Koutoulas; a sister, Maria Koutoulas all of Albania, 6 grandchildren, Nicholas, Joanna, Alexis and Thomas Vasiliadis and Mia and Thea Koutoulas along with their mother DeeDee; and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by 3 sisters, Eftihia Tzanis, Eleni Nastos, and Irini Kantas and a brother, Nikos Koutoulas.
He was born in Himara, Northern Epirus, the son of Dimitrios and Sosana (Kokavessis) Koutoulas. At the age of 16 he fled Albania, leaving his family; he then settled in Greece and served in the Greek Navy. In 1955 he came to New York City and moved to Worcester in 1957. He established Jason’s Pizza Palace on June Street in 1961, which he operated until his retirement. Jason made many life long friends through his work, and will be remembered for his quick wit and smile. In 1988 Jason reunited with his brothers and sisters after a 44 year separation. He was a member of St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, its Senior Group and the Epirotic Society. Jason enjoyed time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren, his work and the many friendships established during his years in business.
The funeral is Monday, August 6th, from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue with a service at 11:00AM in St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery. Calling hours are Sunday, August 5th, from 4:00 until 8:00 PM in the funeral home. The family requests that flowers be omitted and memorial contributions be made to the St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral Endowment Fund, 102 Russell Street, Worcester, MA 01609, Compassionate Care ALS, P. O. Box 1052 West Falmouth, MA 02574 or the ALS Association, 75 McNeil Way, Dedham, MA 02026.