Gregory C. Kanavos

Gregory C. Kanavos, age 90, passed away peacefully July 26th 2026.

Born and raised in Chicago, Greg was a proud first-generation Greek American whose heritage remained an important part of his identity throughout his life. He carried great pride in his family's Greek roots and enjoyed sharing that heritage with others.

Greg was married to his wife, Mary Ellen Kanavos (née Bost), for 60 years. Together they built a life in the Chicago area, living in communities including Chicago, Itasca and Barrington.

Greg began his career in the animation industry during an era when animation was created by hand. As the industry evolved, he transitioned into automotive sales, where he spent many years working with customers throughout the Chicago land area.

Greg enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He loved playing cards, watching movies, dancing,and trying his luck at the casino. He especially enjoyed spending time with family, particularly his grandchildren, and was happiest when surrounded by conversation,laughter, and friends.

Greg is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen Kanavos (née Bost); his children, Michael Kanavos and his wife, Amanda Peppa, Tina Binder and her husband, Tim Binder, and Dr.Patricia Caine and her husband, Erik Engel. He was the proud grandfather – or Papou- of Will Binder, Maddie Kanavos, and Jake Kanavos. He is also survived by his brother,Connie Kanavos, his sister, Pat Pappas, and many extended family members and friends.

Greg was deeply proud of his Greek heritage and loved sharing his culture with his family. One of the ways he kept those traditions alive was through food. He loved cooking Greek food for his family, sharing recipes, and passing those recipes down to the next generation. For Greg, cooking was more than preparing a meal, it was a way to bring his family together and make sure the traditions he loved would continue.

He was also a lifelong Chicago Bears fan and loved watching games with friends and family. Whether gathered around the television for a Bears game, sitting around the table enjoying a Greek meal, celebrating a birthday, or simply spending time together, Greg was happiest when he was surrounded by the people he loved.

Greg will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

A funeral service celebrating Greg’s life will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Davenport Funeral Home in Barrington, Illinois.