A beloved husband, father, brother and friend, Nicholas George Vafiadis, passed peacefully in his sleep May 12, 2017.He shared his last evening with his wife Elaine and his family as they communicated their love and prayers for him. The grandchildren shared with him their hopes and dreams and his favorite songs were sung as well.He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. Nicholas was 88 years old.

Nick was born in Hackensack, New Jersey, November 12, 1928 to George and Xanthe Vafiadis. As a child, Nick was fascinated with planes which lead to his eventual enlisting with the US Airforce. First, he completed his Bachelor's degree in Psychology at Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas. Afterwards, he served a faithful five years in the air force as a radar observer, stationed at Goose Bay Labrador.

Nick and Elaine were married almost 62 years.As newlyweds, Nick moved his bride to Dallas and together they built their family and career. In three years, they had 4 children: Nicholas, Christopher, Phillip and Daria.The family spent many weekends together over the years camping and fishing in the Texas lakes. Today, their children are happily married and seven grandchildren have been added to the family tree.

Nick joined CIT, an industrial finance Corporation, as a young man and worked his way through the company to Senior Vice President. In 1977, CIT offered Nick a promotion and an opportunity to move his family to the west coast. Nick chose Newport Beach, California as the location for CIT Western Regional headquarters and moved the family there in June 1977. After years of dedication, Nick retired from CIT in 1989. He relished many more years with his family, investing more time as husband and dad, and he had a special joy for his role as "Papou."

Nick and Elaine have cousins and close friends with whom they enjoyed countless boating trips, adventures and enduring friendships. They each created treasured memories for Nick and Elaine. His family is deeply grateful for their love of Nick and their heartfelt support.

Nick is survived by his wife Elaine, his children and grandchildren and his younger brother, George Vafiadis. To our dear extended family and to our friends: We love you and thank you for your calls, texts, and condolences. You continue to comfort us.

Services for Nick will be held Saturday, May 20, 2017, 10:00 am at
• St. Paul's Greek Orthodox Church.
4949 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92604

• Immediately following service, family and friends may attend internment at Pacific View Memorial Park.
3500 Pacific View Dr., Corona Del Mar, CA 92625


Please join us in remembering Nicholas. Through this site, we invite you to share your thoughts and fond memories with our family.