Mr. Peter Demetrios Christopoulos

Peter Demetrios Christopoulos January 25, 1935 – August 16, 2025 Peter Demetrios Christopoulos lived a fulfilling, triumphant life — the embodiment of the American Dream. His journey from a small Greek village to becoming a beloved community figure and successful restaurateur is a testament to his grit, vision, and deep love for family and the people in his life. We are all better and thankful for having him in our lives. Of course, Peter would say, “Don’t thank me, thank God.” Peter was born on January 25, 1935, in the village of Dikastro Fthiotidas, Greece, to the late Demetrios and Eleni Christopoulos. After completing his schooling in Greece, he emigrated to the United States in 1955. Arriving with less than nothing, in debt to his uncle for the price of his passage, Peter’s first job was washing dishes at his uncle’s Red Line restaurant on Bridge Street, where he worked to repay that debt and begin his new life. He later proudly served his adopted country in the U.S. Army. In 1963, Peter married Maria, the love of his life, with whom he shared 62 devoted years of marriage. Their bond was deeply rooted; Maria had been childhood friends with Peter’s sister in their small village in Greece. Together, Peter and Maria built both a family and a business with hard work, tireless determination, unshakable faith in God and one another, and by making all the sacrifices necessary to building a successful business. In 1967, they opened their first restaurant on Lake Michigan Drive. What began as a single location grew into a local institution – the Mr. Burger Restaurants – expanding to eight locations over the years. Peter’s relentless work ethic, generous spirit, and infectious personality made him a beloved figure among employees and customers alike. Whether behind the counter or walking through the dining room, Peter connected with people. To this day, many still share stories about “Pete" with affection and admiration. Even in his later years, Peter never truly retired; sitting idle would be anathema. He remained the driving force behind the business, always looking ahead, refining operations, and imagining what could come next. Rest was never his goal and not in his DNA – progress and continual improvement were. Peter was a stalwart member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, donating his time, talent, and financial support and serving on the Parish Council for many years. He also was one of the founding members of Holy Trinity’s Endowment Fund, instrumental in both creating and funding it. Also, he was a member of the charitable organization, AHEPA (American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association). Peter is survived by his loving wife, Maria; daughter Helene; sons Jimmy (Vasiliki) and Andrew; grandchildren Maria and Peter; his brother Lambros (Vula); sister Voula (late Dimitri); sister-in-law Dina; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family in the U.S. and Greece. He was preceded in death by his brothers, George and Vasilios (late Georgia). Visitation will be held at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 330 Lakeside Drive NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, on Thursday, August 21st, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a Trisagion Prayer Service at 7:00 p.m. The funeral service will also take place at Holy Trinity on Friday, August 22nd, at 1:00 p.m., followed by the Makaria meal and interment at Rest Lawn Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, c/o Peter Christopoulos.

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Mr. Peter Demetrios Christopoulos

January 25, 1935 - August 16, 2025