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BORN

1937

DIED

2016

FUNERAL HOME

Blake Lamb Funeral Home - Oak Lawn

4727 West 103rd Street

Oak Lawn, Illinois

Harry Akouris Obituary

Akouris, Harry A. Beloved husband of the late Sharon (nee Gilbertson); loving father of Greg and Cheryl (Murphy); cherished father-in-law of Lori Akouris and John Murphy; dearest grandfather "Papou" of Samantha, Laura, Elizabeth, and Matthew; and fond brother of the late John Akouris. He passed away at the age of 78. Harry was born in Chicago to the late Katherine and Arthur Akouris. He was a graduate of Barton Grammar School and Calumet High School on the city's south side. After military duties and classes at the University of Illinois-Navy Pier, he landed a manager position at The Happy Medium nightclub at the heart of Rush Street's jazz scene. Located at Rush and Delaware, The Happy Medium was part of the famous trio of entertainment properties which included Mr. Kelly's and the London House. Harry was a lifelong jazz fan, and at the Happy Medium he rubbed elbows with jazz greats like Oscar Peterson and was involved with acts that would become legends including Barbara Streisand, the Smothers Brothers and Lenny Bruce. In the mid-sixties, Harry stepped behind the grill of his father's diner, Art's Place, at 7401 South Ashland Avenue. Art's Place was a well-known, local hangout since its establishment in 1936, at the height of the Great Depression. As owner and operator, Harry was always quick with a joke and a smile, and was well regarded by his loyal patrons- from neighbors to tradesman and civil servants. Art's Place proudly served the community for over 75 years before closing its doors in 2014. After his retirement, Harry rekindled his passion for bowling and listening to jazz music with his friends. Harry was one of a kind. He was one of the nicest, most helpful and generous persons you'd ever have the pleasure to meet. A true friend. He will be missed. Visitation is on Sunday, July 31st from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Blake Lamb Funeral Home, 4727 W. 103rd St., Oak Lawn.



To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jul. 29, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Harry Akouris

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Rich Rudolph

August 11, 2016

Just heard of your loss,and am sure he will be missed. Your Father was a Great Person, my condolences

August 4, 2016

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Burnette

August 2, 2016

My condolences to the Akouris family. Psalm 119:59 says " This comfort in my affliction. For your saying has preserved me alive."

August 1, 2016

I am sorry for your loss. May prayer comfort you.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray constantly."

Carol Heywood

July 31, 2016

Deepest sympathy to Harry's family. I have fond memories of being reconnected with Harry at the time of our HS 50th reunion. After that a small group of Barton Grammar School/Calumet HS classmates met for lunch annually. That was such fun. Also, Harry became my e-mail pal in the last several years. He will be missed.
God Bless! Carol (Mueller) Heywood

July 30, 2016

My husband and I had the pleasure of knowing this kind man. We were school mates at Calumet High School and are sorry to learn that another "Calite" has passed. Surely he will be welcomed by all those who went before him. Please accept our sympathies. Bob and Beverly Creger

July 30, 2016

Prayers are with the family and friends of Mr. Akouris

July 29, 2016

May the love of God soothe your heart at this time of grief. May all fond memories of your loved one stay close to your hearts. John 3:16. Sincerely, RH.

July 28, 2016

I send my sincere condolences to the Akouris family for the passing of Harry.
I know personaly how difficult it is to lose a dear loved one to death. I found comfort by drawing close to God in prayer.-James 4:8
DS

Eric A

July 28, 2016

When my mom passed away, Harry accompanied Greg to my mom's visitation and had very kind and thoughtful words for my dad. My dad often mentions this, though my mom passed away almost ten years ago now. I think this really shows the kindness and consideration of the man. For Greg and your family, I hope you remember all the good things and it brings you a smile and helps you feel good about a life well-lived.

July 28, 2016

You have my deepest sympathy. May good memories provide solace for your family during this challenging time. May God provide you with the assurance that you will see your loved one again. John 17:3

July 26, 2016

Sorry for your loss. Please take comfort in God's words found at 1 Peter 5:6. He deeply cares for you and will help you get through this difficult time.

Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results

Memorial Events
for Harry Akouris

Jul

31

Visitation

3:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Blake Lamb Funeral Home - Oak Lawn

4727 West 103rd Street, Oak Lawn, IL 60453

Funeral services provided by:

Blake Lamb Funeral Home - Oak Lawn

4727 West 103rd Street, Oak Lawn, IL 60453

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