John Christopher Theofanis

John was born on June 26, 1925 in Women’s Hospital in New York City. He grew up in Washington Heights with his parents Christos and Anastasia Theofanis and five siblings.

John was raised during the depression and returned to Chios Greece while in elementary school to lessen economic hardship on his family. When he returned to the U.S. he attended NYC public schools. He served in the Navy during World War II as a radio airman stationed in the Pacific.

When he returned to the U.S. he studied under the GI bill. He eventually earned a PhD in Psychology at NYU and became a school psychologist and worked in the Massapequa school district for over 30 years. In conjunction he also was a college professor and a MENSA member.

John met Beatriz Lopez at Hunter College in 1946. They married in 1948 and had three children. Their marriage lasted 72 years.

John embraced his life in Massapequa. He was a long time patron of public places. He often went to Burns Park and Marjorie Post Park and relished nature. He enjoyed the public pool in the summer,  played tennis with friends at Post Park, and visited the library almost daily.

John was a lifelong learner and traveled the world: Europe, Hawaii, Russia and Mexico.

John will be remembered for his big heart. He always wanted to help others, and often recognized their needs before anyone else.

He is survived by his wife Beatriz, sister Maria Theofanis, brother Chris Theofanis, son George Theofanis and daughter-in-law Tess Theofanis, daughter Anne Theofanis Kasschau and loving son-in-law Mark Kasschau (Eldest son John Jr. passed in 2019). Eight grandchildren: Rosa Theofanis, Patrick Theofanis, Robert Theofanis, Eric Theofanis, Raquel Theofanis, Margaret Kasschau  Rollins, Mariel Kasschau and Mark Kasschau, and 9 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the memory of Dr. John Theofanis to Massapequa Public Library, 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa Park NY 11762

Attn: MaryAnn Tweedy, Director

Visit www.schmittfuneralhome.com to leave condolences.