Dr. Michael Tsokas

On Friday, October 14, 2022 after a lengthy illness, Dr. Michael Tsokas, age 93, of Philadelphia, passed from this world into the eternal heavens.  Dr. Tsokas best legacy that he left behind is St. Michael’s Cathedral.

Dr. Michael Tsokas was born in Sitaria, Epirus, Greece on June 19, 1929 to Basilios and Paraskevi Tsokas.  He immigrated to this country at the age of 15 to join his family, who was already here.  He quickly learned the English Language, finished high school, joined the army and was sent to Korea.  Upon his return, he enrolled in Temple University and graduated with Honors as a dentist. 

He settled right next to Temple University, where he lived and also had a dental practice for 54 years.  He was a strong presence in the community and in his neighborhood.  Over the years many people who met Dr. Tsokas, appreciated and respected the pillar of strength he emanated.

Dr. Tsokas was very proud to be an American citizen.  He was extremely grateful that the GI Bill paid for his schooling.  His loyalty to the US surpasses none.

Dr. Tsokas never forgot his homeland. One way of paying homage to his home country was by his intense involvement in many local Greek organizations: Past President, Society of Epirotes Omonia, Past Supreme President Paneperitico Federation of America and Canada, President Genuine Greek Orthodox Community, President Greek-American and Philadelphia Hellenic Soccer Club of Philadelphia, Frist Vice President Philadelphia Soccer League, Member of Tioga Businessman’s Association, President Temple Property Owner’s Association, Chairman, State Republican Committee of the Greek Division.

He devoted his entire life to charities all around the world including the Holy Land, monasteries, and churches in many countries as well as to those in need regardless of race and creed.

Dr. Tsokas’ greatest legacy was the founding of Saint Michael’s Cathedral in 1996 in Philadelphia.  It is the largest consecrated Genuine Greek Orthodox Church in North America.  His intense devotion and dedication to Archangel Michael was such that Dr. Tsokas left his entire earthly possessions to his beloved St. Michael’s Cathedral.

In addition to his parents, Dr. Tsokas was predeceased his brother Dimitri.  He is survived by his brother Spyro (belated wife, Gloria), nieces and many relatives and good friends both in Greece and in the United States.  Dr. Tsokas will be sorely missed by his family and friends, the church, his neighbors and community, Temple University and all the people whose lives he touched.

Relatives and friends are invited to a memorial service on Sunday, November 20 at 10:15 a.m. at St. Michaels Cathedral, 1305 Rising Sun Avenue, Philadelphia, PA.  19140

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dr. Tsokas’ memory to St. Michaels Cathedral, at the mailing address, 3322 N. Park Ave., Philadelphia, PA. 19140.

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