Ioannis “John” Gogas, beloved husband, father, grandfather, restaurateur, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, at the age of 82.

John was born on December 17, 1943, in northern Greece. As a young boy, he moved to Athens to work and help support his parents and four younger siblings, beginning a lifetime defined by hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to family. He proudly served in the Greek Air Force before beginning his culinary career with Club Med in Athens. Through determination and talent, John worked his way up to Head Chef and was eventually entrusted with overseeing the opening of several Club Med locations throughout Europe.

On May 18, 1969, John married the love of his life, Ekaterini “Kathy” Gogas. Their marriage was one of deep love and partnership, and Kathy remained faithfully by his side until his final breath.

In 1971, John and Kathy immigrated to the United States to begin a new life together. They eventually became the proud owners of Royal Pizza House in New Britain, Connecticut, where they worked tirelessly to build both a business and a future for their family. In 1983, they returned to Greece with their two children, Christos and Georgia, hoping to raise them there. But after a year, John realized there truly was no place like America, and the family returned once again to Connecticut, settling in Southbury.

There, John and Kathy founded Jordans Restaurant in the Southbury Shopping Center. Over the next 30 years, Jordans became a beloved local staple and a gathering place for countless friends, families, and loyal customers. The restaurant was more than a business — it was the heart of the Gogas family. John and Kathy raised their children there, and eventually watched the next generation grow up within its walls as well.

Later, the Gogas family took over San Remo Restaurant in Woodbury, where John continued doing what he loved most: bringing people together through great food, friendship, and hospitality.

John will always be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a hardworking businessman, and a man who treated friends and customers like family. His kindness, humor, generosity, and strong spirit touched the lives of so many.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ekaterini “Kathy” Gogas; his son, Christos Gogas; Melissa, who remained a close and cherished part of the family; his daughter, Georgia and her husband Theo; and his four cherished grandchildren, Johnny, Olivya, Yianna, and Fenya.

His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A traditional Greek Orthodox Funeral Service will be held Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 11:30am held at The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church located 937 Chase Pkwy Waterbury, CT. There will be no calling hours. Everyone is kindly asked to meet directly at the Church. Burial will be private.

 To leave an online condolence please visit munsonloveterefunerahome.com.