Arthur Thanash

December 16, 1932 - August 7, 2021

On August 7, 2021 Arthur gracefully set sail on his voyage to heaven where he was welcomed by his beautiful wife Roberta, his sisters Frances, Mary and Charlotte, and parents Peggy and George Thanash of Thessaloniki Greece. Arthur was born in Buffalo NY and at an early age he and his family moved to wonderful San Francisco.

Arthur attended grade, middle and high school in San Francisco graduating from Polytechnic High School in 1950. He joined the Navy upon graduation and proudly served in the Korean War for two years. Upon discharge from the Navy in 1952 Art joined the Sailors Union of the Pacific beginning a career lasting over 60 years in the United States Merchant Marine. He traveled the world many times over and was awarded the Merchant Mariner of the Year award in 2010. Arthur took a break from shipping in the late 60’s where he became an icon in the North Beach nightclub scene and helped pioneer the topless revolution, literally becoming an integral part of San Francisco history. Art also volunteered for many years on the historic SS Jeremiah O’Brien, one of two remaining WWII liberty ships that delivered goods and supplies to troops storming Normandy Beach on D-Day.

In the midst of it all, Arthur loved and took such pride in being the best father and family man. He is survived by his loving children Anastasia and George Thanash. He is also survived by nephews George Faulknor and Philip Derdevanis, and niece Connie Claypool. Art had the kindest, warmest heart and spread joy with that million dollar smile wherever he went. He will be sorely missed by so very many.

Funeral Services will be held at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 999 Brotherhood Way in San Francisco on Wednesday August 18, 2021 at 11am.