Eppaminondas “Eppie” Johnson, Archon Laosynaktis May 7, 1928 – September 16, 2013
It is with great sadness that the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco announces the passing of Eppaminondas “Eppie” Johnson on September 16, 2013 at his home in Sacramento, California.
Eppie was born on May 7, 1928 to George and Fotini in Astoria, NY. He had one sister, Paula Alexander, who preceded him in death. He and his family moved west where his father was a very successful businessman, as well as chairman of the Democratic Party for the State of California. Eppie attended the University of Nevada – Reno where he was active in the ROTC. Following graduation, Eppie served admirably in the US Army. After he completed his military service, Eppie returned to Sacramento to work with his father in the restaurant business. He excelled in the food service industry, and eventually started his own successful chain of restaurants, known as “Eppie’s”, in 1964.
In 1974, he founded “Eppie’s Great Race”, the world’s oldest Run, Bike, Paddle (kayak) Triathlon. This has grown into a signature event for the greater Sacramento area, as Eppie’s Great Race has raised over $1 million for the Therapeutic Recreation Services, a program that benefits Sacramento County’s mentally and physically challenged.
“I had the opportunity to be with Eppie this summer and offer the invocation for the 40th Annual ‘Eppie’s Great Race’. He was so enthusiastic about this event and his love for serving others throughout his life was truly inspirational,” stated His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos. “The greater Sacramento community and the Greek Orthodox Church have lost a wonderful steward with the passing of Eppie, and I hope that his legacy of service will inspire others to continue these efforts in his honor.”
Eppie was a devoted member of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Sacramento, California where he served for many years as a member of the Parish Council. He also previously chaired the Greek Festival. Eppie was a generous and active steward, who faithfully attended church. In recognition of his commitment and support of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, Eppie was bestowed the honor of Archon Laosynaktis in the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle. He was also a member of the Archbishop Iakovos Leadership 100 Endowment Fund. Eppie was also very proud of his Hellenic ancestry and was presented with the Ellis Island Medal of Honor recognizing his many accomplishments and his ongoing devotion to the preservation of his culture.
Eppie is survived by his son George (Molly), and daughter Lisa (Ben), along with his loving grandchildren Eppaminondas G. II, Athena, Alex and Claire.
His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco will preside over the Trisagion Service on Monday, September 23 at 7:00 p.m. at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 600 Alhambra Blvd., Sacramento. The funeral will be held on Tuesday, September 24 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to the Eppie’s Great Race Foundation; 111 Howe Avenue, Suite 140; Sacramento, CA 95825.
May his memory be eternal!