Vlasios A. Benelas, 58, longtime Haverhill resident passed away unexpectedly on Sunday morning, Oct. 15, at St. Vincent Hospital, Worcester.
Benelas was born in Volos, Greece, Dec.12, 1958 to parents Andrew and Efthemia (Papaefthemiou) Benelas. He immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 10 and settled in Haverhill with his family. Educated in Haverhill schools and was a longtime resident until residing in Worcester after retirement.
He worked with his brother for more than 30 years in the family business in Lowell, Captain Jason’s Restaurant until his retirement. Benelas enjoyed all sports especially the teams from Pittsburgh, specifically the Steelers and Penguins, traveling to Greece to spend time with his family and friends there as well as family gatherings in the U.S. and Greek music.
His surviving family members include his loving siblings John Benelas of Haverhill, Eleni Monty and husband Peter of Fremont, NH; caring nieces Joanne and Christina; cherished partner for many years Julie Tounsi of Worcester; other family members both in the U.S. and in Greece and many friends.
Visitation is Wednesday, Oct. 18, at Driscoll Funeral Home, 309 S. Main St., Haverhill, from 4 to 7 p.m. Private burial takes place in Linwood Cemetery, Haverhill. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Vlasios’s memory may be made to the American Heart Association (aha.org) at 300 5th Avenue, Suite 6, Waltham, MA 02451-8750.