Konstantinos “Gus” Dendrinos May 3, 1945 – May 20, 2026
Services for Mr. Dendrinos will take place all in one day on Wednesday, May 27th , 9:30 a.m. until time of Service 11:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church, 7560 S. Archer Ave., Justice, IL. Internment private.
In lieu of flowers donations to Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church.
In lieu of flowers donations to Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church would be appreciated. Please indicate “In memory of Gus Dendrinos” in the Memo when using this link http://www.holycrosschurchjustice.org/
For information please call or text Michael Orrico @ 815/260-0668
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It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Konstantinos “Gus” S. Dendrinos, who departed this life on May 20th, 2026, at the age of 81.
Born on May 3, 1945, in the village of Komitata on the Ionian island of Kefalonia, Greece, Gus was raised in humble beginnings, working alongside his parents and siblings on the family’s land and tending their olive groves. From an early age, he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and devotion to family — values that would guide and define him throughout his life.
As a young man, Gus worked aboard Mediterranean cruise ships, where he was introduced to the art of hospitality while meeting people from all walks of life. He later served in the Royal Hellenic Army from 1963 to 1965, earning the distinguished honor of serving as an Evzone in the prestigious Presidential Guard on the island of Cyprus.
Upon his discharge, he sought greater opportunity by immigrating to the United States, where he entered the workforce as a busboy, bellhop, and waiter at the Drake Hotel in Chicago. He would often recall taking menus home to practice writing and speaking English. Through determination, sacrifice, and a tireless work ethic, Gus built a remarkable 60-year career in the restaurant and bar industry, always striving to support and provide for those he loved most.
Outside of work, Gus found happiness in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. He loved gardening, raising honeybees and making honey, and had a great love for all kinds of animals. He carried a deep appreciation for tradition, nature, and self-sufficiency.
Above all, Gus loved his family fiercely and faithfully. For the past ten years, he never missed a single day lighting a candle in remembrance of loved ones who had passed before him — a quiet and powerful representation of his loyalty, faith, and enduring heart. In his final years, his faith in God grew immensely through reflection, humility, and repentance.
Gus was the beloved husband of his late wife, Adrienne Dendrinos (née Paxenos), with whom he shared 42 years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, dedication, and hard work.
Devoted father of Anastasia “Stacy” (Stan) Rousonelos, Jennifer “Jennie” (Jim) Polson, and Cynthia (Michael) Ferri. Cherished grandfather of Andrianna, Helena, Theodore, and Penelope, who brought immense joy to his life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sotirios and Anastasia; his nephew, Konstantinos; his sister, Penelope (the late Demetrios) Theoharatos; and his brothers, Leonidas “Leo” (the late Kiriakoula) Dendrinos and Gerasimos “Jerry” Dendrinos.
He is survived by his brother, Panagiotis “Pete” (Helen) Dendrinos, as well as many loving nieces and nephews. Gus will be remembered for his kindness, strength, dedication to his family, and unwavering work ethic. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. May his memory be eternal. All arrangements entrusted to Orrico Kourelis Funeral Services Inc.