John Karanikas

Ioannis (John) Karanikas Known by friends as “Johnnie the Greek” John Karanikas, 48, of Kansas City, KS, passed away Thursday, December 19th, 2013. John was born August 27, 1965 in Larissa, Greece to Stylianos and Evanthia Karanikas. He immigrated to the United States and lived first in California, moving to Kansas City in 2003. John belonged to Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Kansas City. He owned and operated a commercial transportation company in Kansas City until his death, and was beloved by all those who knew him. He was known for his gregariousness, loyalty, generosity, and smile. John undoubtedly gave more than he ever received. He loved anything Greek, visiting his home country every year. He loved all of the major American sports: soccer, baseball, basketball, and football, while rooting for both the Oakland Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs. John will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Survivors include his siblings and their spouses, Evangelia (older sister) and Ioannis Gerases (brother-in-law), Michael Karanikas (brother), Anna (twin sister) and Demetrious Gourgiotes (brother-in-law); and nieces and nephews, Eleni Gerases, Areti Gerases, Georgios Gourgiotes, and Evanthia Gourgiotes, all of whom reside in the prefecture Larissa, Greece. He also leaves behind Konstantinos Kariotis (2nd cousin), his wife, Carol, and their sons Pericles and Peter, all of the Kansas City area. John also leaves behind many good friends. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 27 at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 12001 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO, 64145. A private burial for family will be held following the service. Visitation will be from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday, December 26 at the Church, where there will be a Greek Orthodox service at 7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (816-942-9100). Fond memories of John and words of comfort for his family and friends may be left by logging onto: www.CashattFamilyFunerals.com. Cashatt Family Funeral Home - Platte Woods has been entrusted with final arrangements. 816-587-8200

John Karanikas

August 27, 1965 - December 19, 2013