Nicholas "Nick" G. Petmezas

Nicholas “Nick” G. Petmezas, 69, of Long Grove, IL passed away unexpectedly on March 27, 2022. He was born on August 17, 1952 in Kandyla, Greece to George and Efstathia (nee Eliopoulos) Petmezas.

Nick is survived by his wife Janet (nee Brady), the love of his life who he married on October 17th, 1982. He will be deeply missed by his sons Michael Nicholas (Terri, nee Beeson) and Peter Nicholas (Seanna, nee Fitzpatrick); he was a proud grandfather to Sophia and Niko (named in his honor). He is also survived by his sister Evdokia (James Glekas), and brother Gus (Athanasia nee Drosos). Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother James (survived by Eleftheria nee Apergis).

Nick grew up in a small village in Greece, and had many cherished memories of time spent on his family’s property tending the olive groves, working by his father’s side, and getting into his fair share of mischief. He came to the Chicago area at age 14 and began his long, dedicated career in the restaurant industry. In that time, he worked at several restaurants, including his proud years spent as a co-owner of Flag Gardens and Truffles Grove with his brothers.

Nick had many hobbies; he loved traveling, fondly remembering his trips throughout Greece, across Europe, and to Brazil, South Africa, Maine, North Carolina, California, and many other places. He was also an accomplished Martial Arts practitioner, earning a blackbelt and winning a national Karate championship in 1976. He was also a car enthusiast. He was so proud of the different cars he owned over the years, and enjoyed sharing that passion with his two sons.

He was deeply committed to the Hellenic community, holding board positions of organizations including Kekrups and the Pan Arcadian Association. He dedicated his energy to promoting the interests of the Greek community, both in the Chicago area and back in his hometown.

The biggest passion in Nick’s life was spending time with his devoted family and many cherished friends. Nothing made Nick happier than hosting BBQs at his home where his family and friends were always treated to the greatest hospitality. He had a competitive side, whether it was with backyard Bags tournaments, late night games of cards playing biriba with his siblings, or his other great passion in life: golf. Nick was an avid golfer, participating in regular leagues and tournaments, and spending time on the links with his friends and sons at every opportunity.

Visitation will be Thursday, March 31, 2022, from 3 PM until 8 PM with a wake service at 7 PM at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 941 S. Old Rand Rd., Lake Zurich, IL. Visitation will resume on Friday, April 1, 2022 from 9:30 AM until the funeral mass at 10:30 AM at Ascension of Our Lord Greek Orthodox Church, 1207 Riverwoods Rd., Lincolnshire, IL 60069. Interment to follow at Vernon Township Cemetery, Lincolnshire, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in support of rebuilding the church in Nick’s hometown that was damaged in the recent Greek wildfires. Donations can be made at the service, or via Venmo @NickPetmezasMemorial