Mantzaris, Louis
Louis Theodore "Leonidas" Mantzaris passed away on December 28, 2022, peacefully and surrounded by his family. Born in Meriden, Connecticut, to Greek immigrant parents, Lou was the second youngest of five. He served in the United States Army, from 1958-1960, as a medic stationed at Fort Bragg. After the military, he graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a degree in education. He began his 30-year career as an educator with Head Start and would go on to teach 4th-6th grades at Louis Toffolon Elementary School in Plainville.
Along with his dedication to teaching, Louie was a very talented artist and the most skilled handyman, woodworker, and fixer-upper. From repairing garbage disposals to putting wheels on something that probably didn't need it, he was able to take the skills Papou taught him and pass them down to his kids, grandkids, and family who all carry on that legacy. He was also an amateur photographer and filmmaker, documenting the everyday lives of his family and friends.
Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. In the summers, he tended to his vibrant vegetable garden and enjoyed soaking up the sun on the porch he built with his grandson Logan. He kept his heritage and the Greek language alive with his grandson Myles. Louie truly embodied the Greek word for friend, "filos," and was the best hype-person around. With his welcoming, warm-hearted, and open-minded style, he could strike up a conversation with anyone and always had a joke at the ready.
He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Chris and Kris Mantzaris, daughter Nicola Mantzaris, and grandsons, Myles and Logan. He also leaves behind brothers Adam, John, and Christopher, and sister Despina Deegan, as well as beloved sister- and brother-in-laws, nieces and nephews, and best friend Tony Amoroso. Special thanks to dear neighbors, Hank Stefanowicz and Sebby Addamo. He is predeceased by wife Gail and daughter Kara Leigh.
We love you, Louie. To the moon and back times infinity. A celebration of his life will be held at a future time. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Sesame Workshop - or charities seeking a cure for cancer or helping children learn, grow, and thrive - are welcome.