Demetrios George Fanaras

Demetrios George Fanaras of Sterling Heights, Michigan passed away on Tuesday, August 16, 2022 at the age of 82. Beloved husband of the late Joann for 51 years, they are now reunited in Heaven. Loving father of Kim (Terry), Kristie (Randy), and James (Kellie). Cherished Papou/Grandpa of Alexis, Joshua, and Autumn. Sweet brother of the late Konstantinos. Dear son of George and Stella. Demetrios (Jim) was born in Detroit, where he spent his childhood years growing up. His Greek ancestry played a big role in developing his strong family values. In fact, his first language was Greek until he went to school to learn English. In his youth, he delivered groceries and worked part time at his dad’s shoe shop in order to help with the family income. At 16, he worked part time at night as an usher at the Fox Theater, all in an effort to be the first in his family to own and drive a car. Jim graduated from Cass Tech High School in 1958. From 1958 to 1962 Jim was in the US Marines Corps. Dedicated, he moved up in ranks, becoming a Corporal. In the Marines, he was stationed in numerous places, but one of the most prominent was Okinawa, where he learned some Japanese. While it was only a short period, Jim’s time in the Marines shaped the man he was. It cemented his lifelong values of hard work and being courteous. Jim met his wife, Joann, and got married in 1962. They began a beautiful life and grew their family together in Sterling Heights for 48 years, growing in a home he loved. He spent 30 years of his career working in the automotive industry as a Machine Repair Machinist with GM Truck and Bus Pontiac, before retiring in 2002. Jim loved his family more than anything. He found joy in the simple things in life, which always included his family. It was his joy in making sure his dear wife Joann was happy. He and Joann loved each other so much and were content with being each other’s life partner. Taking drives was one of their favorite pastimes. It didn’t matter where they went or what they did, just as long as they were driving together. Even if that meant spending their early mornings driving in their pajamas. During one of those very drives, his car broke down, leading to an awkward encounter with an officer. Some of his favorite local destinations were Metro Beach, Stoney Creek, and Belle Isle. At 51 years of age, he returned to his roots in Greece as his heritage meant a lot to him. He had wanted to see his parent’s town and home and understand his ancestry on a deeper level. Jim was a good man–a true gentleman. He held others in the utmost respect, always putting them before him, and avoided saying a bad word about anyone. He had a very kind heart, and would always help those who needed it. He was quick to laugh and even quicker to smile, and had an easy going personality. He had an energetic spirit, and never let anything stop him; he was stubborn about the things he really cared about. Jim was just one of those people that were instantly likable–with his big heart and big smile–and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He will be missed by all those who had the honor of meeting him. Demetrios (Jim) will be placed in White Chapel Cemetery with his wife, Joann where they can rest together for eternity. In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Jim's honor can be made to Stony Creek Metro Park or Lake St. Clair Metro Park or to the Belle Isle Conservancy

Demetrios George Fanaras

May 18, 1940 - August 16, 2022