Peter G. Millili

Peter G. Millili  Passes away peacefully on November 9, 2019.  Born on August 16, 1921 in Karystos, Evia, Greece he was one of the five children of George and Eleni Millili.  Peters father passed away when he was very young so he went to work to help support his mother and siblings.  This denied him the ability of having any formal education.   He worked as a fisherman until he came of age enough to join the Merchant Marines.  While sailing he traveled the world seeing different cultures and having new adventures and experiences.  He would often later recount those stories to his family. 

Peter came to America around 1949 after jumping ship.  He arrived in New Orleans. He first worked as a bartender at his Uncle's bar in Glenside.  In 1951 he married the love of his life Cleo.  Together they worked very hard during difficult financial times and eventually brought their sons George and John into the world. Sadly Cleo passed in 2017 but not before they could celebrate thir 66th wedding anniversary together.

Peter put his family first and worked very hard in a dangerous job painting bridges and super structures.  He would tell his sons he would sit high up on the bridge beams dangling his feet over the side eating his lunch enjoying the sights without a safety harness.  This type of dangerous work later had an impact on his life by losing his hand in an accident.  However, he did not feel sorry for himself and continued to provide for his family until both of his sons were on their own.   Peter retired approximately 36 years ago and got his fair share back from Social Security over the years.

Peter didn't have many hobbies, but very much enjoyed fishing and working in his yard gardening and planting vegetables.  He was a true lover of Greek Music, especially the old Rembetica.  Growing up in the family home music was playing all the time.  He was a fantastic Greek dancer that danced with his heart.  For sure, the style of music and dancing to Greek music is something his son George and Grandchildren Peter and George adopted.  He and his wife also enjoyed the occasional casino visit as well.

Even though family was first, a very close second has his church.  He has been a member of Evangelismos Church since he arrived in Philadelphia when the church was on 12th St. in Philadelphia.  It is believed he was the oldest, or one of the oldest, members of the church prior to his death. He was also very active board member since 1970 and in 200 he became a Board Member Emeritus.  He worked well with others planning and making the successful move of the church from Philadelphia to Elkins Park.  Peter could not drive, but for years, he would either catch a ride or walk a mile to the bus to get to church and clean the Pangati or any other areas that needed attention or to assist the priest.  He was always one of the first to arrive when there were church services and always had a smile on his face greeting everyone authentically making them feel welcome to the community.  Many members of the congregation loved Peter and would often volunteer their services and/or make donations through him for the church building fund and maintenance programs. For many years, Peter ran the bar at the OPA event and many people would come to the festival just to spend time with him.

Peter loved the church and thought of it as his home.  The church in turn was very good to him.  Through his good works Peter received the keys to the church from Dr. Anthony Borden at the church Thyranoixia in 1972. He received the Parish Council Award for Distinguished years of service in 1988. In 2016 he was honored by the Metropolis at the Ambassadors awards. He received the highest honor the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America bestows on a layperson, The Medal of St. Paul, twice. once in 1981 form Metropolitan Silas of blessed memory and again in 1994 form Archbishop Lakovos of blessed memory.   All these honors and may more citations and achievements form clergy truly show Peters passion for his church and faith.

Even with all his honors peter was a humble man and did not seek out recognition for his many services.  If he were here he would not want to be recognized for his awards but to be known for his love and dedication to God and the church. 

Peter is the beloved husband of the Late Cleo. Loving father of George (Patricia) and John (Barbara).  Devoted grandfather of Peter (Alyssa), Anna, and George (Kristin) and great grandfather of Loukas, Peter, Alexa, Mikey.

His Funeral Service will be 12:30 pm Wednesday, 11-13-19, at  The Greek Orthodox Church of The Annunciation 7921 Old York Rd, Elkins Park, PA.  Friends and Family are welcome to attend his viewing one hour prior to service in the church.  The interment will take place in Lawnview Cemetery following the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the church.   

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