Constantine Peter Kazolias, 92, known as "Gus" to friends and family, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2024, at Vassar Brothers Medical Center.  Gus was planning his 93rd birthday which would have been next month.  He was passionate about life and did not give up without a fight.  He truly lived his life to the fullest.  He was born in Poughkeepsie, NY at Vassar Brothers Hospital and was the last surviving sibling of six brothers and one sister.

Gus was the seventh born son of the late Peter and Pauline (Mellos) Kazolias, immigrants from Greece who came to America for a better life after World War I.  He was predeceased by his older brothers, Nicholas, William, George, Satiro, Anastases and John and younger sister, Amelia Healy.  On October 21, 1962 he married Catherine Ann Davies who passed away last month.  The marriage ended in 1979.

Gus grew up in the heart of the City of Poughkeepsie, where he forged a lifelong connection with his community.  He was a beloved father and grandfather "Pappou", whose stories, laughter, and wisdom will be deeply missed by his family.  He leaves behind his children, Peter, Christopher and Corinna, his favorite son-in-law Jeffrey Gregory and his cherished grandchildren, Margaret "Maggie" and Michael who were the light of his life.  In addition to his children and grandchildren, Gus is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

A man of strong convictions and a powerful voice, Gus was well-known for his active participation in city of Poughkeepsie common council, county legislature and Poughkeepsie City school board meetings and his frequent calls to the local radio station including Hudson Valley Live with Tom Sipos.  He was passionate about his beliefs and dedicated to advocating for his community, never hesitating to speak his mind or stand up for what he felt was right.  He held elected officials accountable and truly cared about his community.  He was a devoted citizen advocate for the City of Poughkeepsie, the city he loved.  He would always say, "I'm a Poughkeepsie kid." His distinctive voice and unwavering commitment made him a memorable and respected figure in Poughkeepsie.  He was a dreamer who never stopped dreaming.

Gus graduated from Poughkeepsie High School in 1949.  He then served in the Air Force during the Korean War from 1950-1954, stationed in France.  He attended Clarkson University and Harper College before he received an associate degree from the first graduating class at Dutchess Community College in 1960.  He worked in construction as carpenter, building inspector and later as a site safety supervisor, working on the JP Morgan building in New York City.

In retirement, Gus was an avid golfer and enjoyed spending time with his college sweetheart, Emilia "Chicki" Taylor, who passed away in 2010.  He managed a family owned parking lot on Church Street for over 30 years.