Tony Nicolaos Dekazos

Tony Nicolaos Dekazos, age 92, passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, May 9, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Tony was born on July 9, 1932, in Merkovouni, Tripoli, Greece to Lambrini (Davlantes) and Nicolaos Dekazos. After many hardships as a youth and witness to the brutality of World War II, he left Greece at the age of 17 with no more than a 3rd grade education to seek a better life in the United States and provide the means to support his family in Greece. Like so many immigrants, Tony passed through Ellis Island and took a train across the country (without knowing the language) to Ogden, Utah. Although he didn’t know a word of English at the start, he had a strong work ethic and a keen business mind.

He lived for several years in Chicago, IL and Sacramento, CA, but his love of the outdoors, mountains, and hunting ultimately brought him back to Ogden, Utah. He worked hard over the years and built a reputation as a successful restauranteur building many establishments including Marilou’s, Cedars, and Dekazos Family Restaurant, within the Ogden and Layton area. Tony loved entertaining, cooking and celebrating. No one ever left his restaurant or home without an amazing meal and full stomach.

In November of 1968 he was introduced to his loving wife, of 56 years, Sofia Zaliares. After one date they were engaged, and then quickly married in April of 1969.

He was a man strong in his faith and proudly attended the Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church in Ogden serving on the parish council for many years. Tony faithfully and generously supported the Greek Food Festival and was a member of the AHEPA Society.

Tony is survived by his devoted wife, Sofia; and his beloved daughters, Lambryne (Mark Wentley) and Nickie (Chris Katsanevas). He was the adored Papouli/Papou of Sophia, Zoe, and Christina Wentley, along with Raeola and Manoli Katsanevas, as well as by numerous nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Lambrini and Nicolaos; and his siblings, Harry, Kontylia (Mousi), Spiro, and Angie (Marines).

Tony was a great man, beloved by friends, neighbors and community members alike, and led an incredible life of service. He always supported and loved his family and treated everyone with respect. He will be remembered for his love of family, kindness, sense of humor and conversation. Whether as a trusted friend, humble Christian servant, loving husband, doting grandfather or reliable neighbor, he will be deeply missed by all.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church, 674 42nd St. Interment, Lindquist's Washington Heights Memorial Park, 4500 Washington Blvd. Ogden. Services entrusted to Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church, 674 42nd St., Ogden UT 84403.