Stephen K. Paliouras

Stephen Konstantine Paliouras, 90, of Erie, PA, fell asleep peacefully in the Lord surrounded by his family on Sunday, June 28, 2026.

Born in the mountains of Valaora, Greece, on May 10, 1936, Stephen lived a full and blessed life. Stephen married Nina (Katsadas) in their home country and together they began a new chapter in search of a better life in Paris, France, where he worked in the automotive industry. After three years in Paris, Stephen, Nina and their son, Constantine “Gus,” immigrated to the United States and settled in New Castle, PA. After welcoming their daughter, Rita, they moved to Erie, PA, to pursue an opportunity in the restaurant business, and became the proud owners of New York Lunch on East Avenue.

Together, Stephen and Nina humbly lead by example as pillars in the Erie community, exemplifying hospitality, generosity, and charity in their restaurant and throughout the city, all while holding Christ as the foundation of their giving nature. Stephen’s smile was contagious, and his work ethic was unmatched.

Stephen learned to rely on faith early in his life growing up in a remote village in central Greece during WWII and later enlisting in the Greek army. He was a dedicated steward of Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, serving on the Board of Directors and the festival ad committee. Every Sunday, Stephen could be found using the gift of voice at the chanter stand, offering his time, talents, and prayer to his church community.

His family-centric dynamic earned him recognition in his church with the Father of the Year Award and at the metropolis level with the 2025 St. Photios Award. He has also been recognized within the community, earning the 2020 Commitment to Erie Award. Stephen always kept his faith at the center of everything he did and inspired his family to reflect God’s love in all they encounter.

Stephen is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Nina, who took tremendous care of him; his son, Constantine (Vasso) Paliouras; daughter, Rita (Chris) Pappas; his grandchildren, Presvytera Lena (Father Anastasios) Athanasiou, Nina (Brandon) Pompeani, Vasili (Brittany) Rizos, Nina Paliouras, Eirene Paliouras, and Stephen Paliouras; as well as six great-grandchildren and countless nieces and nephews.

Friends and family will be received on Tuesday, June 30th, from 4 to 7 pm at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church at 4376 West Lake Road, Erie, PA, 16505, with a Trisagion service to take place at 6 pm. Additional viewing will take place on Wednesday, July 1st, at 10 am with the funeral beginning at 11 am. Father Constantine Alexandrides will officiate alongside Stephen’s grandson, Father Anastasios Athanasiou.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in honor of Stephen. Arrangements are being handled by the Dusckas Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. Condolences may be sent to www.dusckasfuneralhomes.com.

May the Most Blessed Theotokos continue to provide comfort to us all.