Elias S Gantos

Elias “Louie” Gantos, age 95, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday December 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Louie was the eldest of three children, born in Brooklyn, NY to Shafik and Kamley. During his childhood, the family moved to Flint, MI, where he graduated from Flint Northern High School. He went on to serve his country in the Korean War, and upon his return, he married Laura Abdo, his devoted wife of 38 years.

Louie’s life was defined by his hard work, integrity and unwavering dedication to his family. He spent his entire career in the grocery business, most notably at Central Grocery, where he was respected for his expertise and unparalleled work ethic. Even in his retirement, he never lost his passion for the grocery world, enjoying trips to the grocery store to compare prices and observe store displays.

Louie and Laura treasured being a part of Flint’s large Arab community, with many of their dearest friends in the Alwatan Club. He often reminisced about their unforgettable trip to Switzerland with their friends from the Club. Louie was a longtime and faithful member of Saint George Orthodox Church in Flint, MI, from its early days on N. Saginaw Street, and he and Laura raised their family within that community.

Beyond this, Louie was exceedingly simple; material possessions meant little to him- his greatest pride and joy were his family, and he worked tirelessly to provide for his wife and five children. His little time off was spent with them and their extended family and friends, often gathering for picnics in the park together.

One of the greatest joys of his life came later when he earned the beloved title of “Jiddo”. His grandchildren (and great grandchildren) were a source of much happiness, and though he lost his wife much too soon, he was ever-present and helpful in the upbringing of their grandchildren. He was there for school events, family events, and always willing to lend a hand in the everyday routines of family life. Even in his later years, he delighted in his great grandchildren, and his family cherishes the smile captured in so many pictures of him holding a baby on his lap.

Louie is survived by his siblings Sam and Eleanor Smith; his siblings-in-law Louise, Lu, Nick, Yvonne, and Gloria; his children Carri, Theresa (John), David (May), Daniel; his daughter-in-law Haifa; many beloved nieces and nephews including Kam, Mike, and Scott who were like sons to him. In addition, he leaves behind eleven grandchildren, Lindsey (Ryan), Kari (Panagiotis), Jeffrey (Nicole), Staci (Dan), Laura, Gabrielle, Lauren, Elias, Shane, Landon, Liela, and seven great grandchildren, all of whom loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents Shafik and Kamley, his beloved wife Laura, and their firstborn son Shane.

Family will receive visitors from 9:30-11am, followed by a funeral service at 11am, both at Saint George Orthodox Church 5191 Lennon Rd. in Flint on Monday December 15, 2025. Burial will be at New Calvary Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. George Orthodox Church in Flint.